⇀ Start: 6:30 AM, Day 1

 Pick-Up Point: Your hotel in Kathmandu (Thamel or nearby)

↼ Ends: Between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, Day 12

 Drop-Off Location: Your hotel in Kathmandu

Transportation Details

Airport Transfers:

 As part of our all-inclusive trekking service, we provide complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off, no matter your flight time. Please send us your arrival and departure flight information in advance so we can coordinate your transfer smoothly.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

 Your Langtang Gosaikunda adventure begins with a hotel pickup by your licensed guide from Places Nepal. After a quick luggage check and confirmation, you’ll be driven to the local bus station. Around 7:30 AM, you’ll board a shared tourist or local bus bound for Syabrubesi (1,460m / 4,790ft)—the official starting point of the Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake Trek. The 7-hour journey winds through scenic hills, the Trishuli River gorge, and offers early views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu on clear days.

Day 12: Return from Dhunche to Kathmandu

 After completing your trek in Dhunche (1,960m / 6,430ft)—the district headquarters of Rasuwa—you’ll board a return bus to Kathmandu. On arrival in the late afternoon or early evening, we’ll drop you directly at your hotel so you can rest after your 12-day Himalayan journey.

Important Pre-Trek Info

Hotel Pick-Up Coordination:

 Please email or WhatsApp us your Kathmandu hotel name and location before your trek departure. This ensures your guide can locate and pick you up on time.

📍Pre-Trek Briefing in Kathmandu (Highly Recommended):

 We strongly suggest joining our Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Briefing Session held in Thamel a day before departure. This short but essential meeting allows you to:

• Meet your certified mountain guide in person
• Ask any questions related to gear, health, or route
• Get expert tips on what to pack for the Langtang and Gosaikunda region
• Understand the altitude acclimatization strategy and emergency protocols
• Check and rent any last-minute trekking gear if needed

This personalized orientation not only builds trust but prepares you mentally and physically for the Gosaikunda Lake and Langtang Valley Trek.

Food on the Trek: What to Expect

During the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, three daily meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – are included in your trekking package and will be arranged by your certified mountain guide. Meals are served in traditional teahouses or mountain guesthouses that line the trekking route. These locally owned establishments offer comforting, high-carb food ideal for high-altitude trekking. Meals are usually vegetarian, freshly prepared, and adjusted according to availability and altitude. Additional snacks, drinks, and bakery items are not included, so we recommend carrying extra cash for personal purchases.

Breakfast on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Breakfast is typically served between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM before you begin your trek for the day. In the lower regions like Syabrubesi (1,460m / 4,790ft) and Lama Hotel (2,470m / 8,103ft), you can enjoy a variety of options such as Tibetan bread with honey, chapati, boiled eggs, pancakes, muesli, cornflakes, porridge, and toast with jam or peanut butter. Tea, coffee, or hot lemon is commonly served with breakfast. As you ascend to higher altitudes such as Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m / 12,697ft) or Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m / 14,370ft), the variety may decrease slightly, but warm meals like tsampa porridge, Sherpa stew, and hot soup noodles remain available to energize your morning.

Lunch During the Trek

Lunch is generally served between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, and is eaten en route at a teahouse or small mountain village. Your guide will select a convenient place depending on your trekking pace and location. Staple foods include Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice and seasonal vegetables), chow mein, fried rice, boiled potatoes, thukpa (noodle soup), vegetable momos, or macaroni. Dal Bhat is the most popular choice due to its nutritional value and unlimited refill policy in many places. In villages like Ghoda Tabela (2,920m / 9,580ft), Langtang Village (3,430m / 11,253ft), and Chandanbari/Sing Gompa (3,330m / 10,925ft), lunch stops often include scenic Himalayan views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu.

Dinner in the Evenings

Dinner is typically served between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM at the guesthouse where you will stay for the night. As temperatures drop quickly at higher altitudes, most trekkers prefer warm, filling meals. Choices include vegetable curry with rice, garlic soup (great for acclimatization), Sherpa stew, noodle soup, spaghetti, momos, and even pizza in larger settlements like Kyanjin Gompa. In Gosaikunda and high-altitude lodges, meals are simpler but freshly prepared with love by the lodge owners. Evening meals are a great time to relax, interact with fellow trekkers, and enjoy the hospitality of the Tamang and Sherpa communities.

Accommodation on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Accommodation during the Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Trek is arranged in locally owned teahouses and basic mountain guesthouses, all pre-booked by Places Nepal to ensure comfort and reliability. Teahouses are family-run lodges offering twin-sharing rooms, a communal dining hall, and shared bathrooms. Rooms are modest but clean, with wooden or stone walls, thin mattresses, and warm blankets. Hot showers, charging facilities, and Wi-Fi are available in some places at an extra cost.

In lower-altitude villages like Syabrubesi, Lama Hotel, and Thulo Syabru, teahouses may offer slightly more spacious rooms, while in higher elevations like Kyanjin Gompa and Gosaikunda, expect simpler, more rustic accommodations with breathtaking mountain views right from your window. Dining rooms are heated in the evening with a wood or yak dung stove. At popular stops like Langtang Village or Sing Gompa, you may find upgraded rooms with attached bathrooms upon prior request.

If you need accommodation in Kathmandu before or after the trek, we can arrange 3-star, boutique, or budget hotels in Thamel or surrounding areas for an additional cost. Room upgrades during the trek are also available in some villages depending on availability—please contact us in advance if you wish to secure an upgraded room or private stay.

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is rated as a moderate-level Himalayan trek, ideal for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior trekking or hiking experience. The route covers a mix of gradual ascents, steep climbs, and high-altitude trails, reaching a maximum elevation of Tserko Ri at 4,984 meters (16,352 feet) and Gosaikunda Lake at 4,380 meters (14,370 feet). While the trek doesn’t involve technical climbing or mountaineering skills, the combination of altitude, terrain, and daily hiking duration makes it more challenging than beginner treks like Ghorepani or Poon Hill.

Trekkers can expect to walk 5–7 hours daily, covering varied terrain that includes riverbanks, dense forests, rocky moraines, and alpine pastures. The trail from Lama Hotel to Kyanjin Gompa includes a steady uphill climb, while the route from Sing Gompa to Gosaikunda involves thin-air, high-altitude trekking. The Lauribina section before Gosaikunda is particularly steep and exposed, requiring slow and steady pacing. Weather conditions, especially above 3,500m, can change rapidly, so mental endurance and physical preparedness are essential.

Despite these challenges, the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is achievable for most healthy individuals with a positive attitude, proper acclimatization, and guided support. It’s an excellent choice for those aiming to go beyond easy treks and experience the raw beauty of Langtang Valley, Tamang culture, and the sacred lakes of Gosaikunda—all without requiring technical gear or mountaineering expertise.

Understanding the Weather in Langtang & Gosaikunda

The Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda region spans altitudes from 1,460 meters (4,790 ft) in Syabrubesi to nearly 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) at Tserko Ri, creating a wide range of climatic zones. Weather conditions here vary significantly based on elevation and season. Lower altitudes experience temperate to cool climates, while high-altitude areas like Kyanjin Gompa and Gosaikunda Lake see alpine conditions with freezing nights and possible snow even in spring and autumn.

• Spring (March to May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, warm days (10°C to 20°C at mid-altitude), and cold nights (-5°C to -10°C above 3,500m).
• Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfall below 3,000m, slippery trails, frequent landslides, and cloudy mountain views. Trekking is risky but lush.
• Autumn (September to November): The most stable and scenic trekking season with crystal-clear skies, panoramic mountain views, and pleasant temperatures (15°C days / -5°C nights).
• Winter (December to February): Snowfall is common above 3,500m. Gosaikunda Lake and Lauribina Pass can be frozen or blocked, but lower Langtang Valley is still accessible with proper gear.

Best Time to Trek: Spring & Autumn

The best time to do the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is during the pre-monsoon spring (March to May) and post-monsoon autumn (September to November) seasons.

Spring (Mar–May): This is the ideal time to experience Langtang’s lush forests bursting with rhododendron blooms, warmer days, and increasingly clear views of Langtang Lirung (7,234m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422m). The trails are alive with birds, flowers, and flowing rivers.

Autumn (Sep–Nov): Known for its post-monsoon clarity, this is the most popular trekking window in Nepal. Expect dry trails, vibrant blue skies, and starry nights. Pilgrims also visit Gosaikunda Lake during the full moon in September/October, adding a rich cultural vibe to the trek.

While winter trekking in Langtang is possible, Gosaikunda Lake and Lauribina Pass (4,610m) may be snow-covered or impassable. Trekkers attempting this route in winter must be experienced and well-equipped.

How to Prepare and Get Fit for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a moderate-level Himalayan adventure that requires both physical preparation and mental readiness. With altitudes rising up to 4,984 meters (16,352 feet) at Tserko Ri, and daily hikes lasting 5 to 7 hours, building your endurance, strength, and adaptability is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re a first-time trekker or an experienced hiker, the tips below will help you get fit for this unforgettable journey through Nepal’s sacred lakes, alpine valleys, and high Himalayan passes.

1. Build Your Cardiovascular Endurance

Trekking in high altitudes means your lungs will work harder with less oxygen. To prepare your cardiovascular system, aim to do aerobic exercises 4–5 times per week at least 6–8 weeks before your trek.

Recommended activities:

• Brisk walking or hill walking with a loaded backpack (start with 5–7 kg)
• Jogging or running (30–45 minutes per session)
• Swimming or cycling for stamina and lung capacity
• Stair climbing or treadmill incline walking

Aim to gradually increase intensity and duration. The better your cardio, the easier your body adapts to altitude changes in places like Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) and Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m).

2. Strengthen Your Legs, Core & Stability

You’ll walk for hours over uneven trails, climb steep hills, and descend rocky paths. Strengthening your legs, glutes, knees, and core will make these challenges easier and reduce fatigue and injury.

Key workouts to include 3–4 times per week:

• Squats, lunges, and step-ups (for quads and glutes)
• Calf raises (for ankle support on descents)
• Planks and crunches (for core stability)
• Resistance band exercises (knee & hip strength)
• Yoga or Pilates for flexibility and joint mobility

These exercises simulate the demands of trekking and are especially helpful for sections like Lauribina Pass and Gosaikunda's high ridges.

3. Practice Hikes with Your Gear

Nothing prepares you better than hiking with your actual backpack, boots, and trekking poles. If possible, go on weekend day hikes or multi-day treks before your Langtang adventure.

Why it matters:

• You’ll break in your trekking boots and avoid blisters.
• You’ll get used to carrying your daypack weight (5–8kg recommended).
• You’ll learn how to pace yourself and rest efficiently.
• You’ll test your layering and hydration strategy.

Try hiking trails with elevation gains over 500–1,000m per day, similar to those between Lama Hotel to Langtang or Thulo Syabru to Sing Gompa.

4. Prepare Mentally for High Altitude & Basic Conditions

Trekking at altitudes over 3,500 meters means lower oxygen levels, colder temperatures, and simpler facilities. Prepare yourself for:

• Altitude symptoms: Learn about AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), take it slow, stay hydrated, and don’t skip acclimatization hikes (like Tserko Ri).
• Simple accommodation: Mountain teahouses have basic beds and shared toilets; hot showers may be limited.
• Early nights and early mornings: Trekking schedules start early to avoid afternoon weather changes.
• No Wi-Fi or charging in some areas: Embrace the digital detox and bring extra batteries or power banks.

A positive mindset, patience, and flexibility are just as important as physical training.

5. Bonus Tips for Trekking Fitness

• Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily to aid altitude adjustment.
• Eat Well: Fuel your training with carbs, protein, and veggies to build stamina.
• Sleep Consistently: Your body recovers better with regular rest.
• Get a Health Check-Up: If you have any pre-existing conditions (asthma, heart issues), consult your doctor before committing.

You don’t need to be a marathon runner to complete the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, but you do need to be prepared. With consistent training, the right mindset, and expert guidance from Places Nepal, you’ll enjoy every step of this sacred and scenic Himalayan journey.

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek – Trip Overview

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a soul-stirring journey through the sacred highlands of Nepal, combining the alpine valleys of Langtang National Park with the mythic lakes of Gosaikunda. This 12-day trek offers an immersive experience of Tamang culture, Himalayan wilderness, Buddhist heritage, and glacial beauty, all within close proximity to Kathmandu. From the bamboo forests of Lama Hotel (2,470m / 8,103ft) to the spiritual shores of Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m / 14,370ft), the trail blends breathtaking natural scenery with deep cultural roots.

Ideal for trekkers seeking moderate difficulty, fewer crowds, and authentic Himalayan culture, this route is a beautiful alternative to Everest and Annapurna. Whether it’s standing beneath Langtang Lirung (7,234m) in Kyanjin Gompa or climbing Tserko Ri (4,984m / 16,352ft) for sunrise, each step of the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek offers moments of awe and serenity.

Route Description & Altitude Highlights

The trek begins with a scenic overland journey from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,460m / 4,790ft), a charming riverside village in Rasuwa district. From there, the trail follows the Langtang Khola river, gradually ascending through bamboo and rhododendron forests to Lama Hotel, then onto the yak pastures of Langtang Village (3,430m / 11,253ft) and the cultural heartland of Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m / 12,697ft). A highlight is the hike to Tserko Ri, offering panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and even distant peaks like Shishapangma in Tibet.

After descending back to Thulo Syabru, the trail climbs again through Sing Gompa (3,330m) and up to the spiritual lakes of Gosaikunda, considered sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. You'll cross dramatic landscapes, glacial ridges, and yak trails, reaching a high point near Lauribina La Pass (4,610m / 15,125ft) before ending the trek in Dhunche (1,960m / 6,430ft) and returning to Kathmandu.

Why Choose the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek?

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is perfect for trekkers who want a quieter Himalayan experience with both glacier-fed valleys and sacred alpine lakes, all in one journey. It's a brilliant alternative to the crowded Everest Base Camp or Annapurna trails, yet equally rewarding in scenery, altitude variation, and cultural richness. The route traverses Langtang National Park, Nepal’s first Himalayan conservation area, and offers a rich combination of Tamang hospitality, ancient monasteries, and pristine Himalayan views.

Another advantage of this trek is accessibility. It starts just a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu, making it ideal for those with limited time who still wish to explore high-altitude terrain. The gradual ascent, well-marked paths, and availability of cozy teahouses make it doable for anyone with good fitness and a sense of adventure.

Permits Required for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

To trek in the Langtang and Gosaikunda region, two key permits are required:

• Langtang National Park Entry Permit – This covers your access to the protected region and its natural heritage.
• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) – A safety tracking system managed by Nepal’s trekking agencies to keep trekkers accounted for and supported.

Both permits are arranged for you by Places Nepal before the trek begins, and the costs are included in your package. You'll need to bring a copy of your passport and two passport-size photos. These permits are checked at various entry and exit points, such as Dhunche, Syabrubesi, and Sing Gompa, so carrying them at all times is essential.

A Hidden Trail in Nepal’s Himalayas

While treks like Everest and Annapurna dominate the headlines, the Langtang Gosaikunda route remains a hidden gem in Nepal’s vast trekking network. This underrated trail leads you deep into the Langtang Himalayan range, where you'll find solitude, spirituality, and spectacular alpine beauty. The trail is less commercialized, meaning fewer trekkers and a more personal connection with locals, nature, and the trail itself.

Despite being relatively close to Kathmandu, Langtang was severely affected by the 2015 earthquake. Since then, the region has rebuilt with resilience, and choosing this trek helps support local communities directly. The remoteness and spiritual energy of Gosaikunda’s sacred lakes add another layer of depth to this transformative journey.

History and Culture of the Trek

The Langtang Valley was once an important trade route to Tibet, and its people are primarily Tamang and Tibetan-descended communities, whose cultural traditions remain deeply rooted in Buddhism. Villages like Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa are dotted with prayer wheels, chortens, and ancient monasteries such as the revered Kyanjin Monastery, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags and snow-capped peaks.

Gosaikunda, meanwhile, holds immense religious significance. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created the lake by striking the mountain with his trident to soothe his burning throat after swallowing poison. Every year, thousands of pilgrims make their way to Gosaikunda during the full moon festival of Janai Purnima, blending cultural worship with natural wonder.

Flora and Fauna of the Region

Trekking through Langtang National Park, you'll pass through lush forests of oak, pine, rhododendron, bamboo, and hemlock, as well as blooming alpine meadows. In spring (March–May), the region bursts into color with over a dozen rhododendron species. Autumn, on the other hand, brings clear skies and golden landscapes.

This region is also home to rare Himalayan wildlife. If you're lucky, you may spot red pandas, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, langur monkeys, and over 250 bird species, including Himalayan monals and snow pigeons. The pristine ecosystem, especially around Langtang Valley and Lauribina Ridge, offers a serene and biodiverse trekking experience that few places in Nepal can match.

Why Choose Places Nepal for this Trek?

Places Nepal is a team of seasoned trekking professionals, certified guides, and mountain lovers who are passionate about delivering authentic, safe, and responsible Himalayan adventures. Our Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is designed with both comfort and exploration in mind, ensuring proper acclimatization, scenic trails, and deep cultural encounters.

We prioritize local connections, working closely with village teahouses and employing local guides from the Langtang region who know the area intimately. With flexible itineraries, 24/7 support, pre-trek briefings, and the ability to customize add-ons like hotel stays or side trips, we make sure your journey is personalized and worry-free. When you trek with Places Nepal, you're not just a client — you're part of a growing community of mindful explorers who care about culture, nature, and ethical travel.