Tour Overview

Trip Code
DE-0020
Starting Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Max Altitude
4,984m / 16,351ft
Duration
18 Days
Country
Nepal
Trip Grade
Moderate to Strenuous
Activities
Trekking
Best Season
Spring and Autumn

A trek in one of Nepal’s most enriching and highly sought-after treks, the Gosaikunda Langtang Trek provides a mix of religion and nature. Reaching 4,380 meters, the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and Langtang Valley are frequented each year by thousands of pilgrims and trekkers. It is not only because of the sheer beauty of the region but also because when you are in its surroundings, amidst the towering Himalayas and peaceful alpine lakes, you understand why it stands so high. Destiny Excursion arranges this trek, and in this 18 day tour with 14 day trek, you get to fully experience the landscape, the holy sites, and the unique culture of the Langtang region. While the trek itself normally takes about ten days, this extended itinerary includes cultural sightseeing, acclimatization, and a balanced pace, making it a complete Himalayan adventure.

Climbing to Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri Viewpoints

The Gosaikunda Langtang trekking trail leads you through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, alive with birds and wildlife, and across cascading waterfalls that bring life to the valleys below. Popularly referred to as the ‘Valley of Glaciers,’ Langtang provides stunning vistas of Himalayan behemoths such as Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Gangchempo, all of which are capped with snow throughout the year. Besides natural beauty, however, this trek is also endowed with culture to the extent that you pass through courteous Tamang and Sherpa villages, which are classic embodiments of mountain culture, welcoming mores, and a way of life irrevocably attached to nature. The serene vista and spiritual setting transform this trek not just into a test of bodily strength but also into an enlightening experience. The pinnacle of the trekking odyssey is to arrive at Gosaikunda, a glacial lake shining on serrated ridges.

Both Hindus and Buddhists regard it as sacred, and Hindus believe that Lord Shiva created it and therefore, it is a natural wonder as well as a site for pilgrimage. From this, you also have the option to ascend to higher viewpoints such as Kyanjin Ri (4,400m) or Tserko Ri (4,984m), where 360-degree Himalayan vistas open up before your eyes, an experience to treasure for a lifetime.

Your Gosaikunda Langtang Trek with Destiny Excursion is not just mountains and lakes. Time is given in the schedule in Kathmandu, the heritage city of Nepal, prior to trekking to the Himalayas.

With seven sites listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, temples, palaces, and stupas, Kathmandu welcomes you to the national religious and architectural heritage. The walk through its crowded streets gives you the transition of city life and holy history before your trek.

With the perfect blend of culture, natural scenery, and sacred landscapes, the Gosaikunda Langtang Trek with Destiny Excursion is an experience that transcends a mere trekking adventure. It is an experience of the Himalayas at their purest – one you will cherish for years to come.

Tour Highlights

  • Begin with culture touring in Kathmandu, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath.
  • Trek through verdant rhododendron and bamboo forests full of wildlife such as langurs, barking deer, and even the rare red panda.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and other Himalayan giants from Chisapani and along the way.
  • Cross the high Laurebina Pass (4,610m) before reaching holy Gosaikunda Lake, a pilgrimage site for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.
  • Visit Shin Gumba with its famous cheese factory, Buddhist statues, and monasteries packed with multi-colored thangka paintings.
  • Discover Langtang Village, rebuilt after the 2015 earthquake, and experience real Tamang and Sherpa culture.
  • Reach Kyanjin Gumba (3,800m), surrounded by glaciers, chortens, and prayer flags in a serene high-altitude environment.
  • Trek to Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) and Tserko Ri (4,984m) for stunning 360-degree Himalayan panoramas and views of frozen lakes.
  • Stay in basic Nepali teahouses en route, where there is a warm mountain welcome and good, simple cuisine.
  • Complete your trek in Syafrubesi, a bustling bazaar town on the Tibetan border, before returning to Kathmandu.

Points of Attraction

Langtang-Gosaikunda-Helambu trek is an adventure over different terrains, high passes, sacred lakes, and culturally important villages. Along the trek, adventure seekers experience nature’s stunning beauty, once-in-a-lifetime cultural encounters, and adventure moments to cherish.

Scenic and Natural Attractions

  • Langtang Valley panoramas: Look up at Langtang Lirung (7,234m) and surrounding peaks from Langtang Village and Kyanjin Gompa.
  • Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m): Sacred alpine lake surrounded by jagged peaks; of special significance to Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.
  • Laurebina Pass (4,610m): Isolated high-altitude pass with panoramic views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Helambu ranges.
  • Yak grazing grounds and alpine meadows: Observe vast open valleys, grazing yaks, and flowering alpine plants.
  • Rhododendron and bamboo forests: Lively forest trails, particularly colorful in summer, with peace and shade.
  • Langtang Khola River: Hike along the river with a scenic green valley and woodland sections, natural watercourse, and wildlife spotting.
  • Village views: Several villages, like Thulo Syabru and Tarkeghyang, provide open views of nearby mountains and valleys.

Cultural and Heritage Attractions

  • Langtang and Helambu villages: Local Tamang and Sherpa villages with demonstration of local architecture, customs, and festivals.
  • Kyanjin Gompa monastery: Visit the ancient Buddhist monastery, admire prayer flags, mani walls, and Buddhist inscriptions.
  • Shin Gompa monastery and cheese factory: Observe traditional Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies and yak cheese production.
  • Local village activities: Unwind with the hospitality of Sherpa and Tamang villagers, local cuisine, and trailside village customs.
  • Tarkeghyang Monastery: Extensive Buddhist religious complex of the Helambu district with cultural artifacts and narrow village streets.
  • Moderate to challenging treks: Span a range of altitudes, terrain, and climates, from subtropical forests to high mountain ranges.
  • Laurebina Pass and Lake Trek: Embark on a mystic hike with the Laurebina Pass and Gosaikunda Lake trek.
  • Wildlife observations: Chances of spotting langurs, barking deer, and occasional appearances of the red panda, which is a protected species.
  • Acclimatization treks: The optional Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri trek provides panoramic mountain views.

Stay and Experience

  • Teahouse stay: Plain village teahouses with simple rooms, Nepali food, and a home-like atmosphere. Overnights in locally-owned teahouses.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu: Begin and end your trek in Kathmandu in comfortable 4/5-star hotels offering deluxe facilities.
  • Cultural experience: Explore Thamel, Durbar Square, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath in Kathmandu before or after the trek.
  • Local food: Enjoy authentic Nepali food at village teahouses and enjoy the local flavor of Tamang and Sherpa cuisine.

Itinerary

Elevation: 1,400m

Greetings from Nepal! Arrangement will be made for you to be picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport by our representative and transferred to a Kathmandu hotel. Travel takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, and you have your first view of the city’s choked roads filled with motorbikes, street hawkers, and their bright signboards. After check-in, you can rest, unpack, or take a bit of walking around the adjacent Thamel, a tourist ghetto with its cafes, shops, and craft shops. It’s also a good time to purchase any last-minute trekking gear or travel essentials. The rest of the day is free to relax, acclimatize to the 1,400-meter elevation, and prepare for the days ahead. You can either dine at your hotel or venture out to find local eateries nearby.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Elevation: 1,400m

Following your arrival at Kathmandu, the next day, i.e 2nd day of your journey, is all about getting briefed about the trek and obtaining the required permit. You wake up with a fresh mind, have a hearty breakfast, and spend some leisure time. Following this, you meet your trekking guide about the journey ahead, which covers the itinerary, safety measures, expected weather, and necessary permit arrangements. Once the briefing is over, you shall check the trekking gear and purchase any essentials that you require. Then you head towards the Nepal tourism board to get the required permits, which can easily be done within an hour or two, depending on the number of visitors. With this, you are done with the planned tasks for the day and can spend the day at your leisure.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 2,165m

Breakfast will be followed by a private transport drive to Sundarijal, which will last around 1 hour from Kathmandu. Having left behind the chaotic city roads of Kathmandu, the road gradually meanders along through small villages, fields, and forests, with intervening views of village life. On reaching Sundarijal, the climb begins gently through dense woods of rhododendron and oak, under which the songs of birds echo at your heels and the high-pitched calls of the langur or the squirrel, running across the trees, are occasionally heard. Two hours of grueling uphill walking along rocky paths lead you to Mulkharka, a small resting point surrounded by stunning vistas of the lower Himalayas’ foothills. Lunch is enjoyed here in the freshly acquired mountain air. The path then eases a bit, allowing for easy walking as you proceed to Chisapani. The destination greets you with a picturesque cluster of teahouses lining the ridge, offering spectacular views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lhakpa, Tserko Ri, Ganja La Chuli, and Yala Peak. The night is welcomed with a serene sunset over the mountains, and the serene nature of this mountain village sets the tone for the trekking experience ahead.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,470m

The trek to Kutumsang begins after breakfast. The trek begins by descending gradually before ascending through thick, fragrant woods of pine, rhododendron, and bamboo. Leaf rustling and bird calls in the distance ring out with you as sunlight filters through the canopy, which casts vibrant patterns on the earth. It’ll take you about 3.5 hours to arrive at Golfu Bhanjyang, a serene spot ideal for lunchtime since you get a view of the valleys below. Following lunch, the path keeps ascending towards Kutumsang, which has wooden and stone teahouses in a traditional style, welcoming the trekkers. The village offers intimate contact with the surrounding culture, from small vegetable gardens to school-going kids walking to school, offering an experience of peaceful country life amidst the vibrant mountain landscape. Late afternoon offers the chilly mountain air and the stunning view of mountains over Kutumsang as the perfect spots to unwind and prepare oneself for tomorrow’s trekking.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,690m

Today is a brief day of approximately 4-5 hours of mostly uphill walking. The path twists through thick green jungle lined with pine and rhododendron trees, creating an aromatic, shaded tunnel. After roughly two hours of trekking, you come to Mangengoth, a cluster of tiny tea houses, where you take a break for a little while and drink tea or coffee. Proceeding further ahead, the trail goes up to Thadepati, where lunch is taken at a guesthouse. A short 15-20-minute walk lies ahead, which ends at a viewpoint where one has panoramic views of Melamchi Village, Surya Peak (5,145m), and Chhyarkung Chuli (4,830m). The forests, snow-capped peaks in the distance, and gentle rustling of the mountain wind have made Thadepati an extremely special place in this trek. The evening climate is clear sky, perfect for stargazing, with the outline of the Himalayas casting long shadows in the valley.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,730m

The day’s trekking is 4-5 hours on primarily downhill and easy ridges, which will be a leisurely but engaging walking experience. Trekking goes through breathtaking rhododendron woods, where patches of red, pink, and white flowers are seen against a dark green canvas. Bamboo forest zones add diversity, and with every step, the rustling sound of leaves can be heard. After about 3 hours, you reach Ghopte, a tiny village ideal for lunch in the middle of the surrounding hills. The afternoon walk is an additional 2 hours, and you reach Phedi. The village is situated in the hills and has teahouse stays for a cozy overnight stay. The view around, with hills in the backdrop and forests below, offers the perfect ambiance to unwind and inhale the cool mountain air.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,380m

Today’s hike is one of the highlights of the trekking journey as you ascend to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake via the challenging Laurebina Pass. The hike is 5-6 hours long, with the first 3-4 hours being a relentless climb up wooded trails, which eventually give way to open alpine ridges above the tree line. A packed lunch is essential since there is no tea house on the trek. Laurebina Pass at 4,610 meters has stunning scenery with peaks like Surya Peak unfolding on the horizon. After scenery and photography, the trek begins downwards to Gosaikunda Lake for about 1.5 hours. The lake is itself a pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly resplendent at the time of celebration for the Janai Purnima festival, and the nearby snow-capped mountains create a serene, almost mystical atmosphere.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,330m

From Gosaikunda, one proceeds directly downhill to Shin Gumba along the rhododendron forests and pine groves. Langurs and barking deer may be seen on the trail at times, adding a touch of elegance to it. The trekking time totals 3-4 hours. Shin Gumba is renowned for its monastery and local cheese trade. On your arrival, you can visit the Phulung Monastery in the evening to observe stunning Buddhist statues, thangka paintings, and monuments. Lunch is taken on-site at Shin Gumba, which gives you enough energy to explore the region before nightfall.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,470m

The trek goes ahead after breakfast towards Lama Hotel, which usually takes 5-6 hours. The route passes through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests. The first part, up to Thulo Syafru, is downhill walking alone, and it would take 3 hours. A lunch break here and then goes downhill to Pahiro. From Pahiro, an easy uphill trek brings you to Lama Hotel. Forest trails with glimpses of distant peaks create a day serene but photographer-paradise. Teahouse accommodation is possible here at Lama Hotel, as there is a chance to relax and reflect on the journey so far.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,430m

The trek from the Lama Hotel is thick bamboo and oak forest for almost 3 hours to Ghoda Tabela, where we will have lunch. The path then continues to Langtang Village. The Langtang Village was destroyed by the 2015 earthquake to the ground level, but has been restored and has new settlements along the valley. Throughout the journey, you will encounter various gumbas, mani walls, and additional religious sites, emphasizing the spiritual legacy of the area. Breathtaking sights of Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal enhance the trek, providing remarkable landscapes throughout the 6-hour journey.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,800m / 12,467ft

Today’s trek to Kyanjin Gumba is shorter, at around 3 hours of easy walking (6-7 km). The trail features Buddhist remains like chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls that establish a cultural backdrop. Greater altitude produces increasingly vaster views of surrounding peaks. Lunch is offered at Kyanjin Gumba teahouse on arrival, and the remainder of the day can be spent at leisure or optional trek. Trekkers have panoramic views of the Langtang Himalayan range with a steep 1.5-hour hike and a 40-minute walk down.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,984m

Today is challenging as well as rewarding, with an optional trek to Tserko Ri. The top provides breathtaking views of 14 peaks surrounding it, Langtang Valley, and glacial alpine lakes. It takes 4-5 hours to reach the top and around 4 hours to descend. After this rewarding experience, you head back to Kyanjin Gumba for a well-deserved relaxation and supper, staring at the enormity and grandeur of the high Himalayas.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,460m / 4,790ft

You begin your day by going down the way back to Lama Hotel, a 6-hour downward trek. You pass through dense bamboo and pine forests along the way, and with the sunlight filtering through the canopy, lending an atmosphere of peace. Along the way, you will catch glimpses of langurs and barking deer passing through the underbrush, and now and then you may see the rare, endangered red panda, making this part of the trek particularly interesting. The downhill hike is consistent and allows time to take in what has been accomplished so far. Arriving at Lama Hotel, you can sit back, take in the surrounding scenery, and relax for the next day’s trek.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,235m

From Lama Hotel, the trail goes steadily up through forests, terraced villages, and villages. Khanjim is located on the hillside of a Tamang village with spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. Along the way, there will be local schools, gumbas, and solitary prayer flags that give a sense of spiritual pilgrimage to the trek. The trek would take around 6 hours, with some going up parts alternating with gentle slopes down. When you arrive, you can spend the night in a simple teahouse, meet the villagers, and experience the real Tamang culture.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,467m / 4,790ft

The last day includes trekking. You trek down to Syafrubesi from breakfast, which is 2 hours away. The trek takes you through village life, ridge-top fields, and forest, and village life throughout the trek. Once you arrive at Syafrubesi, you arrive at your hotel, have lunch, and rest for a little while. The town has shops and souvenir stalls, some of which import items from Tibet. It is the ideal moment to unwind, visit the bazaar, and recall the wonderful trekking experience in Langtang and Helambu regions.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,400m

After breakfast, you begin preparing your equipment and leave by private vehicle for the return to Kathmandu. The journey lasts 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions, passing through villages, small towns, and undulating hillside country, offering a final look at Nepalese countryside life. Lunch is eaten en route at Bidur. You will be checked in at a hotel on arrival in Kathmandu, have time to relax, and prepare for the final day of your itinerary.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

This is your last full day in Nepal, and this day is all about relaxing. You can visit tourist destinations such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or roam the local streets while visiting the cafes in the corners. Additionally, you can also spend the day visiting the spa or simply resting in your hotel room. The decision is yours, as this day is all about relaxing.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

We will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight after breakfast. Check in travel documents and personal belongings. Trekking ends and you bid farewell with the memories of diverse landscapes, cultural villages, high mountain alpine passes, and the hospitality of the people you met on your journey. Airport transfer is around 30-45 minutes, subject to traffic conditions, giving sufficient time for international flights.

Overnight:

Meals: Breakfast

Trek Route

What's included

  • Welcome dinner upon arrival
  • Hotel accommodation on bed and breakfast plan in major cities
  • Lodge or tea house stays during trekking
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Domestic flights for both travelers and guides
  • Private transfers included in the itinerary
  • Professional guide and porters with full support and insurance
  • Permits and entry passes for the trekking area
  • First aid kit with necessary supplies
  • Single room supplement evenly shared when required

What's excluded

  • International airfare, Nepal visa, and airport fees
  • Comprehensive insurance covering emergencies
  • Any extra services not included in itinerary
  • Personal trekking gear (available for rent or purchase)
  • Personal costs like drinks, snacks, or laundry
  • Extra lodge fees for hot showers or charging devices
  • Gratuities for staff and crew
  • Unexpected expenses due to delays or strikes

Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best. Winter travel is possible but expect snow and cold at high altitudes.

Previous experience on other treks is not required. General walking or little fitness training will increase trek comfort and ease of completion.

Accommodation is mainly in tea houses or locally owned guesthouses with twin-bedded rooms and communal toilets/bathrooms. Amenities are minimal but provide hot food and opportunity to experience true Nepali mountain hospitality.

Altitude illness is less common than at higher Himalayan ascents but may occur for some trekkers. Gradual progress, acclimatization days, hydration, and a relaxing pace prevent problems.

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Starting From:

US$1486

No. of peoplePrice per person
1 Pax$ 2310
2-3 Pax$ 1486
4-5 Pax$ 1353
6-7 Pax$ 1372
8-9 Pax$ 1299
10 Pax$ 1266

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