Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Gosaikunda Pass 4610 meterratingbased on 9 reviews
  • Duration16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5033 m, Tsergo Ri
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Group Size 2-20 People
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$945
2 - 6 paxUS$845
7 - 10 paxUS$795
11 - 15 paxUS$745
16 - 20 paxUS$695
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Highlights
  • Kyanjin Gompa and its famous cheeses
  • The Tamang and Tibetan culture and hospitality of the valley
  • Visiting the holy lake of Gosaikunda
  • Climbing to Gosaikunda La Pass (4610m)
  • Beautiful scenery of the valley and glorious mountain views
  • The options to climb Kyanjin Ri or Tsergo Ri

Gosaikunda Trek Overview

The 16-day Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is the perfect amalgamation of one of the easier and more beautiful treks in Nepal, with a final leg that takes trekkers on the scenic Gosaikunda trail.

The Langtang region was long one of Nepal’s most popular destinations on the trekking map until the area was dealt a terrible blow by the 2015 earthquake, and it has taken until very recently to recover, though the numbers of visitors remain down from past years. So not only do its former scenic charms still exist, but choosing to trek through the valley helps to economically restore the lives of the friendly Tamang people who populate the region.

As a teahouse trek alternative to Annapurna and Everest, the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a superb choice that rounds out the forested lowlands, alpine pastures, and yak herds of Kyanjin Gompa in Langtang Valley with the sacred jewel of Gosaikunda Lake and the Sherpa meadows of Helambu.

From Kathmandu, the normal approach is by the Trisuli River to Syabrubesi, the trailhead for the trek.

The route winds through dense rhododendron forest on either side of the river until it breaks from the tree line and heads into the alpine regions, across the glacial moraine, and on to the rebuilt village of Langtang. Further and higher into the valley’s inner sanctum are the yak pasturelands and dramatic setting for Kyanjin Gompa, a remote monastery famous for the production of yak cheese. Optional climbs to either Kyanjin Ri or Cherko Ri render panoramic views of the nearby mountains, including Langtang Lirung, which dominates the valley at a height of 7234 meters.

Returning to the trailhead, the Gosaikunda route heads off in a southeast direction and climbs steadily through terraced fields to scenic highlands, offering a stunning view of distant peaks such as Manaslu (8163m) and the Tibetan plateau to the north. The trail then leads on to Gosaikunda and the sacred lake of Gosaikunda, a serene mountain valley that adds even more to the magical outlook across the distant Himalayan peaks. In August, the area becomes a major pilgrimage sight for Hindus, who flock to the region during Janai Purnima to pay homage to a site held to have been Shiva’s temporary home.

The Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Trek finally culminates with the climb to the pass of Laurabina La (4610m) and the outpost of Thadepati nearby with its dramatic views to the east, not least the sunrise that awaits those who stay the night there. The last stretch involves taking the trail to Chisapani and onwards to Sundarijal, which offers a satisfying conclusion to the journey.

The final choice is up to you, so why not contact us and let Nepal Trekking Experts help you make a trek through Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda a reality you’ll always treasure?

Additionally, you may choose Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Helambu trekand many other stunning packages.

Langtang Gosaikunda Trekking Permits

To enter the Langtang Valley, you will require two permits and must trek with a government-licensed guide. When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, all permit fees are included in your package, and your experienced guide will obtain the required permits on your behalf with your passport.

  • The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card costs 2000 Nepali rupees and will be obtained through the Trekking Agencies only.
  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit, which can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board or the park entrance for 3000 Nepali rupees.
Useful Information

Accommodation on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Valley hosts a small selection of tea houses all along its less-traveled route, meaning no tents are required. This trek can be done similarly to other well-known hiking routes, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Tea houses in the Langtang Valley tend to be cozier and more interwoven with the local families and their culture. Room quality varies depending on the area and price point. The deeper into the mountains and the higher in elevation you travel, the more basic the accommodation. You can expect simple rooms, often with shared bathrooms and squat toilets, without heating, so we provide you with a clean -20°C sleeping bag. When available at more established tea houses, you may purchase a hot shower for less than a dollar (paid in local currency).

Meals on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

You will be eating at the tea houses where you're staying for breakfast and dinner and stopping for lunch at tea houses along the route. Considering that you are trekking into a remote region of the Himalayas, the menus are quite sizable, offering both local and Western dishes; however, the menus from village to village are rather similar. You can choose from a variety of local dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills!), fried rice or noodles, Mo Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), spring rolls, or western dishes like pasta, pizza, and potatoes.

For breakfast, you can enjoy local chapati or Tibetan bread with curry or go for more familiar eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. This trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but if you have any other dietary restrictions, you can let us know, and your guide will communicate with the kitchen staff.

Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes dinner in Kathmandu before you leave for your trek and three meals a day (with tea or coffee) every day of the trek, including travel days. If you'd like, you can purchase extra snacks, desserts, or fancy coffees when they're available.

Telephone Service on the Langtang Region

Due to its relatively close proximity to Kathmandu, the Langtang Valley has quite a wide range of phone service and mobile reception. NCELL and Nepal Telecom are our two major SIM card providers in Nepal; however, Nepal Telecom is recommended for better reception in the Langtang region. You can purchase an NTC (Nepal Telecom Communications) SIM card in Kathmandu when you arrive.

Internet on the Langtang Region

Most tea houses offer wifi for their guests for a small fee, although at times it may not be reliable due to weather and other issues. You can expect to pay $4 or less (in Nepali rupees) for wifi along the Langtang Valley Trek.

Device Charging on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

You can expect to pay a small fee for electricity in most tea houses. A fully charged device costs less than a dollar, which you can pay in rupees. Tea houses are powered by electricity or solar power at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank may be useful during your trek in the Himalayas.

Transportation

All transportation fees and arrangements are included in your trekking package when you book with Nepal Trekking Experts. To start the Langtang Valley Trek, you will travel via bus from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Syabrubesi (7/8 hrs) and start trekking the following day. Once you finish your trek, the journey back to Kathmandu will be the same in reverse. Please be aware that the buses in Nepal can be overcrowded (especially if you are traveling during festival time), not particularly tidy, and will stop in villages along the route to pick up and drop off more people. Bus rides can be part of the exciting, immersive experience of being in a foreign country, but they are not for everyone. If you would like a more comfortable alternative, we would be happy to book a private jeep for you and your group. Jeeps shave off a couple of hours of travel time, and you can stop for breaks at your leisure. Upon your request, we will book private transportation for $130 from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and $130 from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu.

Porter

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking or have any concerns about the journey, then we would recommend having a porter in the Langtang region carry your bag for you. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you book your trek.

How can I book the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek?

To book your trek with us, you have to send a 10% deposit of the total cost. Please also forward a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and full flight details if and when available. For your convenience, you may forward the deposit online through our website. It is completely safe, and as soon as you make it, you will get an automatic receipt in your inbox. The rest of the payment can be paid upon arrival.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 Star Hotel

Greet and welcome at the airport then transfer to the Hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 Star Hotel

Free day for trekking preparation and enjoying cultural diversity in Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1503m/4931ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi by bus. The town is the main confluence for numerous treks in the Langtang region and has a scenic setting by the banks of the Bhotekoshi.

  • Max. Altitude:2470m/8014ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The trek gets off to a serene start, crossing a rustic wooden bridge traversing the icy waters of the Bhotekoshi, a stream with lofty origins by the border with Tibet. The path leads away through dense woodland perched by the river, with abundant wildlife on the show as we gradually hike to Lama Hotel for our first night on the trail.

  • Max. Altitude:3430m/11253ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The valley's dominant peak, the majestic Langtang Lirung, keeps us company as we steadily hike through the steep-sided valley, with heavily forested sections of rhododendron, pines, and oaks giving way to the telling signs of the region's strong connection to Tibet via the numerous Mani walls, water-driven prayer wheels, and prayer flags marking our passage. Our time at Langtang Village is a somber one, as the signs are still all too evident of the tragic landslide from the devastating 2015 earthquake that completely destroyed the original village and took many lives. The new community has been more prudently placed, but a memorial at the site of the landslide reminds us of the painful event.

  • Max. Altitude:3870m/12697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A short hike awaits us today as we work our way steadily higher through a changing landscape that leaves behind the verdant woodlands and opens out into a high-altitude region of yak pasturelands and rushing streams, with the towering mountains pressing in from both sides of the valley. Our early arrival at Kyanjin provides ample opportunity to explore the monastery and to sample the intriguing yak products of the local cheese factory there that was established with the help of the Swiss.

  • Max. Altitude:3870m/12697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

At an altitude of over  5000 meters, Tserko Ri provides the perfect outlook for the valley and presents a decent challenge to climb, the effort is well worth the attempt as the view from the peak towards Langtang Lirung and other peaks in the area is breathtaking in its scope and beauty. We return in plenty of time to relax from the climb — and perhaps sample more of the cheese!

  • Max. Altitude:2470m/8104ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today we return to Lama Hotel, though the hike back is an easy downhill walk that offers us a different perspective from the way in.

  • Max. Altitude:2230m/7316ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

From Lama Hotel, we take the path to Pairo and start the steep ascent towards the Tamang village of Thulo Syabru and its scenic setting atop a ridge.

  • Max. Altitude:3300m/10827ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A steep, chorten-lined trail takes us up through dense forests of oak and rhododendron to Foprang Danda, and then eases up as we make our way steadily to Sing Gompa and its picturesque setting and impressive views. With enough time at our disposal, we can visit the monastery and sit back to relax for the rest of the afternoon.

  • Max. Altitude:4380m/14370ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A day of superlatives as we climb through dense woodland to Cholangpati, then take a steep trail towards Lauribinak and its glorious views of Ganesh Himal, Lantang Himal, Manaslu, and the distant Annapurnas. Alpine scenery comes into focus as we break free of the tree line and make our way to the sacred pools of water at Gosaikunda, chief among which are the three pristine lakes known as Saraswaitkunda, Bhairabkunda, and the holiest of all, Gosaikunda itself. In Hindu belief, the area is believed to have been the temporary home of Lord Shiva himself and is thus considered a prime area of focus for pilgrims who make the long journey to the pools in August each year.

  • Max. Altitude:3530m/11581ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A day of achievement as we crest Laurebina Pass, pause amidst the colorful prayer flags to celebrate the moment and take in the mountain panorama, then make our way down the steep and scenic trail to Phedi and on to Gopte for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:2470m/8104ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Our path today leads us through a rolling forested landscape decked in rhododendron and pine, with the sound of numerous streams scything through the woodland giving us a pleasant soundtrack to our easy journey. Our day's highlight is the visit to Thadepati and its picturesque outlook atop a ridge, after which we descend through more dense woodland to Maghingoth, where we take lunch. A pleasant hike takes us steadily downhill and across a series of stream crossings, with rhododendron and pine forests enveloping us as we make our way through the moist temperate forests of the lower valley to the village of Kutumsang.

  • Max. Altitude:2215m/7267ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The day begins along a steadily ascending trail through the emerald green hills of the Helambu region until we reach the ridgeline over Gul Bhanjyang. From there, we hike to Thodang and Chipling and then descend into more rhododendron and oak forests to Chisapani, a hill station famed for its sunrise views towards the snow-capped mountains in the west.

  • Max. Altitude:1400/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Our last day of hiking takes us through more dense woodlands and an easy stroll through the peaceful Mulkharka valley. Our descent through the valley provides us with wonderful views of the entire Kathmandu valley as we steadily make our way down to our final destination of Sundarijal. From there, a short bus ride takes us back to Kathmandu, where we can relax and celebrate the end of a highly rewarding trek.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included (twin share basis)
    • All necessary trekking permits, TIMS cards, etc.
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • Fresh fruit each day if and when available.
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, sleeping bag
    • A government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Road transport to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu
    • Road transport to Kathmandu from Sundarijal
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT
    • Certificate of Achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips for staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Langtang Gosaikunda Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:MondayMar 25, 2024
    End:TuesdayApr 09, 2024
    PriceUS$945
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

    Photos & Videos
    9Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Trekking z widokiem na Shishapangma

      To już kolejny trekk z NTE i ponownie niezwykle udany. Weszliśmy bezpiecznie na Yala i w pełnej krasie zobaczyliśmy Shishapangma. Dolina Langtang z powrotem przez Gosaikunda jest świetnym wyborem dla wszystkich wędrowców szukających pięknych widoków i rozsądnego wysiłku. Polecam.

      A
      Andrzej WFeb 14, 2024Poland
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Great experience with Nepal Trekking Experts!

      Apr 2023

      In April, we did the Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda trek and our trip was simply perfect. Thakur was a very responsible guide, watching over us so we felt secure and safe at all times. He was very sociable too, chatting away merrily with us and whoever we met, and as a bonus, pointed out various types of wildlife and natural beauty to us, terrific! Our porter Siva was a great help too, and always in a good mood during the sometimes steep climbs and descents. The treks were awesome: stunning views, steep cliffs, suspension bridges, beautiful forests, and a great many blooming rhododendrons. The four of us had a lot of fun playing Dumbal at night, and joking while on the way, especially when the going was tough.

      Rajesh was an excellent and reliable host, answering any questions we had beforehand clearly and quickly. When we arrived it was easy to get in touch with him when our luggage failed to arrive, and he took care of communication with the airline and reassured us, so we did not worry over our bags. We were welcomed with flowers at the airport and a drink at the hotel, and immediately knew we had made the right choice. So many, many thanks to Nepal Trekking Experts, who made this trip to an unforgettable experience for us!

      J
      Jos VMay 18, 2023Netherlands
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