Langtang Gosaikunda Trek - 16 Days

Highlights

  • Explore the Langtang National Park and Shivapuri National Park
  • Trek through remote mountain villages of Sherpas and Tamangs
  • Come across beautiful waterfalls, terraces, meadows, and rivers on the way
  • Get to see diverse flora & fauna while walking through dense forests
  • Visit Kyanin Gompa and hike to Tserko Ri
  • Witness the stunning beauty of the holy Gosaikunda Lake
  • Cross Laurebina pass and walk through the pastreus of Helambu region
  • Get to see the lifestyle and culture of Hyolmo community
  • Witness stunning mountain panorama of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Shishpangma, Dorje Lhakpa, etc

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is an excellent 16 days venture north of Kathmandu. It is a very adventurous trip that explores the Langtang valley, the holy Gosaikunda Lake, and the Helambu region. Usually, trekkers do separate short treks to explore these places, however we have combined and crafted a single program that lets the trekkers explore all three places in one trek. 

The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trekking begins from Langtang National Park and later joins Shivapuri National Park, crossing the Laurebina La (4,600 m). The trekking route goes along the banks of the Bhote Koshi and Langtang rivers. You will be walking through dense forests and lush foothills. 

The expansive mountain views, rich cultural heritage of the locals, and diverse flora & fauna along the Langtang Gosaikunda and Helambu trek are worth all the hurdles the trail holds. Also known as the Gosaikunda Helambu trek, this trek offers a true village lifestyle, undisturbed by modern development. 

Regardless of close and quick access to the starting point of the trail, very few people do the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek 16 days every year. The trail does not see the crowds like other famous trails like Everest base camp and Annapurna base camp. Therefore, trekkers get to enjoy a serene journey. 

The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek route takes you very close to the Tibetan border. Sherpas and Tamangs are the main inhabitants of the Langtang valley and are seen on the way to Gosaikunda Lake. Whereas in Helambu, you'll meet with people from the Hyolmo community. Tamangs are believed to be the descendants of Tibetans. You will notice quite an influence of Tibetan Buddhism along the trekking route. 

Mountain views during the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek

You get to see an uncountable number of hills and mountains during the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek. The journey presents stunning glacier views and diverse landscapes. Mountains like Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Langtang Lirung (7,234 m), Mt. Kang Guru (6,981 m), Dorje Lhakpa (6,966 m), Shishapangma (8,027 m), Yala Peak (5,500 m), Ganchempo (6,387 m), etc dominate the sky. 

Kyanjin Gompa & Tserko Ri

Kyanjin Gompa is situated at 3,830 meters. It is the last highest settlement in the Langtang valley. Kyanjin Gompa is an ancient monastery, pretty valuable for the locals. We take acclimatization here and hike to Tserko Ri. Located at 5,033 meters, Tserko Ri is a viewpoint that offers surreal mountain landscapes. 

Gosaikunda Lake

Gosaikunda Lake is situated at 4,380 meters. It is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus. The lake is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva and his wife, Goddess Parvati, as per the Hindus Mythology book. During the Janai Purnima festival in the month of August, hundreds of pilgrims visit Gosaikunda Lake to worship. The lake is stunning and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. 

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek difficulty & altitude sickness

The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is a remote, difficult trek. The trail is much more trodden than you may expect. This trek is for experienced trekkers who are ready to challenge themselves and push their limits further. The trek crosses a high mountain pass and walks past many landslide areas. The trail is steep and uneven. Likewise, the basic facilities for trekkers are quite minimal.

You are not only dealing with trodden trails but also very limited and expensive services & high altitude during the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trekking. Your endurance and determination will help you make the trek successful. Talking about the high altitude, there is a risk of altitude sickness during this trek. 

Our Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek itinerary will let you acclimatize and enjoy the trek to its fullest. Listen to the advice of our mountain guide and let him know if you see any symptoms of altitude sickness, like a bad headache, vomiting, trouble breathing, insomnia, etc. 

Booking

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is one of the best treks to do in Nepal in 2023 if you are looking for something different and want to challenge yourself. The trek is well-guided and very safe with us. You can book a private trek or join one of our fixed departures dates. 

For more information regarding the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek 2023, please get in touch with our team. These are some other similar treks in the Himalayas- Annapurna circuit trek, Manaslu circuit trek, Everest three high passes trek, Upper Mustang trek, Makalu base camp trek, etc.

Itinerary
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On your arrival, we'll welcome you at the airport and take care of your luggage. Our team will drop you at the hotel and inform you about the program later in the day. We haven't planned much on your arrival day apart from welcome dinner. You will spend the evening mingling with the locals and other travelers in the bustling streets of Thamel.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

The trek begins from Syabrubesi. We leave the bustling Kathmandu city early in the morning and drive following the lush green hills & terraces to Syabrubesi. During the drive, we also get to see stunning views of snow-capped mountains. The drive is long but quite comfortable.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1550m

We begin trekking, crossing the Bhote Kosi and Langtang rivers. The trail goes through a lush forest, following the Langtang river. We walk past the landslide area and ascend to Rimche. From here, we walk through forests of bamboo and birch. On the way, we may come across wildlife and birds. The trail ascends to Lama Hotel, where we'll be spending the night. 

 

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2330m

From Lama Hotel, the trail continues to Langtang village. We walk alongside the Langtang river and ascend through dense forests. We can see mountains peeking above hills every now and then while trekking. Following the narrow river valley, we walk out to Ghoda Tabela. We will take a short break here to have lunch. The trail crosses the east side of the river and ascends to Langtang village.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3430m

Today, we walk through small abandoned villages and beautiful meadows. From Langtang village, we walk on the wise trail, enjoying stretching views of the Himalayas. The trail crosses numerous tributaries and glacier moraines. We then gradually ascend to Kyanjin Gompa. The landscape is fantastic from this point. Kyanjin Gompa is an ancient monastery with significant value to the locals.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3830m

Today is our rest day in Kyanjin Gompa. Early in the morning, we'll hike to Tserko Ri, a viewpoint. The trail is rocky and steep, so be careful. Upon reaching Tserko Ri, we get to see a jaw-dropping mountain panorama. Later in the day, we will visit the Yak cheese factory and spend the remaining day exploring the village. The views of Yala Peak, Dorje Lhakpa, Langtang Lirung, Langtang II, Shishapangma, Mt. Kang Guru, Ganesh Himal, etc are outstanding on this day.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5033m

We say goodbye to Kyanjin Gompa and retrace the trail back to Lama Hotel. The trail steeply descends through meadows and lush forests. We walk alongside hills and pass by small villages. The mountain views are beautiful, and the peaceful surroundings make the descent pleasing. We trek through Langtang village and Ghora Tabela and keep walking on the downhill track to Lama Hotel.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2470m

The trail descends to the bank of Langtang Khola. We'll walk past a small waterfall and further join rhododendron & bamboo forests. We may come across monkeys and wild boars on the way. The views of Ganesh Himal are wonderful today. Crossing a suspension bridge, we trek to Thulo Syabru for the night stay.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3300m

We are again on the uphill trail. From Thulo Syabru, we slowly walk uphill and pass by an army check post. After half an hour of an uphill climb, we'll reach Daragang. From here onwards, the trail is less steep. We walk through forests of oak and hemlock. This part of the trail may bring us across exotic red pandas. We keep trekking and walking past Dhimsa before reaching Sing Gompa.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3300m

After breakfast, we begin trekking to Cholangpati village. As we ascend, the striking view of the Langtang range will come into our perspective. We'll be walking on a barren mountain trail with no human trace. The majestic Himalayan mountains dominate the skyline. After a few hours of trek, we reach Laure Binayak and ascend to Gosaikunda Lake. It takes us another two hours of walking to reach the lake.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4380m

We will be crossing a mountain pass today. The day begins early, and we leave Gosaikunda. Descend along the northern shore of the lake. The trail gradually gets steep as we ascend towards Laurebina La pass, passing by three more lakes. It is the highest point of our trek. From the top of the pass, we get to see a breathtaking panorama of the snow-capped mountains. 

After enjoying the views, we continue walking on a downhill trail that goes to the High Camp (4,240 m) and further descends to Phedi. From here, we cross a stream and walk down to Ghopte. The downhill walk from the pass is steep.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4600m

Leaving Ghopte, we begin walking through the forests of rhododendron, pine, and juniper. At this point, we are at a very remote part of our trek. The trail gradually goes to Tharepati and descends through lush forests alongside the western ridge slope. From here, we walk on a huge meadow and follow a steep downhill forested track that leads to Maghingoth. On the way, we get to see stunning views of Dorje Lhakpa and Ganchempo.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3390m

From Maghingoth, it is a short walk to Kutumsang. The trail first ascends to Kuala Bhanjyang (3,335 m). The scenery is unlike any other trekking route. Further, we descend to Kutumsang to spend the night. We walk past lush forests and meadows.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2470m

After breakfast, we ascend for a while and soon join a downhill path to Gul Bhanjyang (2,140 m). From here, we trek on an uphill dusty trail to Thorong Danda (2,500 m) and keep walking until we reach Chipping village. The later part of the trail is steep and rocky up to Chipping village. Further, we trek down to Pati Bhanjyang (1,760 m) and walk for another half an hour to Chisapani.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2215m

Today is our last day of the trek. We leave Chisapani after a warm breakfast and walk down to the checkpoint of Shivapuri National Park. The trail descends through a forested path and joins a wide road. We'll walk past reservoirs and large pipes before we reach Sundarijal. The trek ends here, and we drive back to Kathmandu. The remaining day is free to rest and shop. Meet us in the late evening for a farewell dinner.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

Pack your stuff and get ready to leave the hotel. Our airport team will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the international airport for your flight back to your home.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Route Map
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek - 16 Days Map
Includes/Excludes
Includes
  • Two nights accommodation in Kathmandu with twin sharing at tourist standard hotel (Bed and Breakfast)
  • All Ground and air transportation. Pick up and drop.
  • Full board meal 3 times a day (B+L+D) during the trek days including tea & coffee (served in a cup).
  • English speaking trekking guide who has been authorized by the Nepal government and necessary number of porters (According to the group size) with their insurance, salary, accommodation, and meals.
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu with Cultural show. (Ethnic music and dance)
  • All the necessary official documents, TIMS Permit, Trekking Permit, etc.
  • Sleeping bags and down jackets if necessary.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking Route map.
  • Insurance of Guide and Porters.
  • All required local and government tax.
Excludes
  • Nepal Visa fee and International flight.
  • Meal except for Breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • All personal expenses such as bar bills, water, extra tea/coffee, snacks, battery re-charge, laundry service, hot shower etc.
  • Personal clothing and gears.
  • Tips to guide and porters.
  • Cost raised by flight cancellation, emergency rescue charges, landslide, weather, political unrest, illness, re-routing etc which are not under our control.
  • Monument entrance fees.
Additional Information

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek best time

In general, the trekking season in Nepal runs from September to November and from March to May. These months offer the best combination of good weather, clear views, and moderate crowds. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool nights, and the skies are generally clear, providing great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek can be done in other months as well, but the weather and conditions may be less favorable. The winter months (December to February) can be very cold and snowy in the Langtang region, making the trek more challenging and potentially dangerous. 

The summer months (June to August) are the monsoon season in Nepal, which means that the trekking trails may be wet and muddy, and there may be more clouds and rain, which can limit visibility.

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek accommodation

Teahouses are the most common type of accommodation along the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek route. These are small, locally-owned guest houses that offer basic facilities, including private rooms or shared dormitory-style rooms, and often include a dining area where you can have meals. 

Guesthouses are similar to teahouses, but they are typically located in larger towns and villages and may offer more amenities, such as Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. It is important to note that the availability of accommodation can vary depending on the time of year you are trekking. 

During the peak season, from September to November and from March to May, accommodation may be more crowded, and you may need to book in advance to secure a room. During the off-season, accommodation may be less crowded. and you may be able to find a room more easily.

Meals

During the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of local and international dishes at the teahouses and lodges along the route. These establishments usually have a menu with a variety of options, including Nepali dishes, Tibetan dishes, Indian dishes, and Western dishes.

Nepali dishes that you may find on the menu include dal bhat, which is a staple meal consisting of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables, as well as momos, which are steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. Other dishes like thukpa, Tibetan bread, curry, rice, naan bread, pasta, pizza, and sandwiches are available.

You can also find a variety of hot and cold drinks, including tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, as well as bottled water and soft drinks.

Group/private joining

A group trek involves joining a group of trekkers who are led by a professional guide. Group treks can be a great way to meet other like-minded people and share the experience of the trek, as well as benefit from the expertise and knowledge of the guide. Group treks are generally more affordable than private treks, as the costs are shared among the group members.

A private trek involves hiring a guide and porters (if desired) to take you on the trek on a one-on-one basis. Private treks offer more flexibility and customization, as you can tailor the itinerary to your specific interests and needs. Private treks are generally more expensive than group treks, as you are paying for the exclusive services of the guide and porters.

Child Policy

There is no specific child policy for the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek, as it is ultimately up to the parents or guardians to decide if the trek is suitable for their children. However, there are a few factors to consider when deciding if the trek is appropriate for children:

  • Age and physical ability
  • Altitude
  • Safety

Travel Insurance

It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek, as it can provide financial protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, injury, or trip cancellations. Travel insurance can also cover you for other potential issues, such as lost or stolen luggage, travel delays, and medical evacuation.

There are many different travel insurance companies and policies to choose from, and it is important to do your research and find a policy that meets your specific needs and budget. When comparing policies, be sure to consider the coverage limits, exclusions, and terms and conditions, as well as the reputation and financial stability of the insurance company.

Some things to look for in a travel insurance policy for the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek include coverage for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Trip cancellations and interruptions
  • Emergency air evacuation
  • Personal liability: This can include coverage for accidental damage or injury that you may cause to another person or property during your trip.
FAQs
  • Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is one of the longest trekking programs in the Langtang region. The trek lasts 16 to 18 days. If you are looking to do a short trek, then you can do this trek individually too.

  • The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek costs between USD 1400 to USD 2500 and above. The trek cost varies as per the itinerary, service, and company charge.

  • No, Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trekking is not an easy venture. You spend many days in the mountains and trek on steep, rocky trails. The trek demands previous trekking experience along with sound health & fitness.

  • The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is famous for the proximity of the trailhead, the Langtang National Park, beautiful villages, less crowded trail, excellent mountain panoramas, Gosaikunda lake, ancient monasteries, apple orchards, huge meadows, etc.

  • From Kathmandu, it takes five days to reach Gosaikunda Lake. You can trek to Kyanjin Gompa and then head to Gosaikunda, too or trek directly to Gosaikunda lake.

  • Yes, Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is worth it. You'll be traversing the Langtang Himalayas. Not much talked, but the region offers an adventurous trekking route through lovely villages, pastures, and lush forests. This trekking route offers authentic village life.

  • We do not recommend the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek for beginners. It is a long trek with many hurdles, and steep ascends & descends. For beginner trekkers, the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek will be too much to handle.

  • To reach Langtang, first, you have to drive to Syabrubesi. You can take a local bus or rent a car. The buses leave daily in the morning from the bus park. The price of a ticket ranges from USD 6 to USD

  • Yes, you can do Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek solo. But don't do this trek without a guide. It is one of the less visited trekking trails with very minimum accommodation & food facilities. The trail is a lot steeper and more trodden than other famous trekking routes. It is better to do the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek with a guide or in a group.

  • Yes, you will need a sleeping bag for the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trekking. The blanket in the guesthouse may not be enough to keep you warm, so better carry a good quality sleeping bag.

  • Yes, the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is safe if you are not doing it solo. Solo trekkers have to be very mindful of the trail.

Client Reviews
  • L
    Laurie1158AustraliaNov 07, 2017

    Langtang & Gosainkunda Lakes Trek

    Oct 2017 • Couples

    Returned to Queensland Australia on 18th October 2017
    This was our 3rd trip to Nepal and again everything went to plan. With Everest Base camp 4 years ago, Annapurna Circuit 2 years ago and this time Langtang/Kyanjin Gumba and then around to Gosainkunda Lakes (12 day trek). Binod and his team made it perfect again. His patience with us as slow walkers and getting us up to altitudes of 4300 meters plus without any problems was a credit to his knowledge of the areas he promotes through his company Nepal Pioneer Treks and Expeditions.
    My husband and I (56 and 58) have trusted Binod and his team every time we have planned our adventures in Nepal. We can not recommend Binod and his business partner highly enough. Their team of guides and porters help make this company a pleasure to deal with. The time spent together talking, play cards, laughing and just having fun really do make for great memories.
    The accommodation in Thamel was excellent. Clean and well maintained and the staff were very helpful.
    We ask you contact Binod for yourself and have him help you plan your adventure in this beautiful country.
    Laurie and Spencer
    If you have any questions we are happy for you to contact us. [email protected]

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