Higher Path Treks & Expeditions

Langtang Gosaikunda and Helambu Trek

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Days
17
Save
US$ 100
Limited offer
From US$ 1,690
US$ 1,590
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 $1,690
2 - 2 $1,590
3 - 3 $1,490
4 - 4 $1,450
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Max. elevation
4985 m / 16354 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Best season
Mar- May, Sept - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation
3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek

Highlights

  • Explore the beautiful Langtang Valley, known for its lush forests, picturesque villages, and stunning mountain views.
  • Visit Kyangjin Gompa, a Buddhist monastery located at 3,870 meters.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Langtang Lirung and other snow-capped peaks from this vantage point.
  • Reach the sacred Gosainkunda Lake (4,380 meters), a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Cross the Laurebina Pass (4,610 meters), which offers stunning views of the Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, and the Helambu region.
  • Trek through the Helambu region, famous for its scenic terraced farmlands, green hills, and charming villages inhabited by Sherpa and Tamang people.
  • Experience the unique culture and traditions of Tamang, Sherpa, and Hyolmo communities.
  • Spot various Himalayan wildlife such as red pandas, Himalayan thar, and different species of birds in the Langtang National Park.
  • Enjoy diverse landscapes including dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged mountain terrain.

Overview

The Langtang Gosainkunda and Helambu trek is a mesmerizing journey through the lesser-known but incredibly beautiful regions of Nepal, offering a blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wildlife. This trek typically spans around 15 to 18 days, depending on the exact route chosen and the pace of the trekker.

Starting from Syabrubesi, the trek gradually ascends through lush green forests of rhododendron, pine, and bamboo, which are home to various species of wildlife including the elusive red panda and the colorful Himalayan monal. As you ascend further into the Langtang Valley, the views open up to reveal snow-capped peaks including Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters), the highest peak in the area. The valley is dotted with traditional Tamang villages where you can experience the hospitality and culture of the local people.

One of the major highlights of this trek is the Gosainkunda Lake, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists alike. This high-altitude lake sits at an elevation of around 4,380 meters and is surrounded by rugged terrain and snow-capped peaks. According to mythology, the lake was created by Lord Shiva when he pierced a glacier with his trident to obtain water to quench his thirst after consuming poison.

After exploring Gosainkunda and its serene surroundings, the trek continues towards the Helambu region. Helambu is known for its picturesque villages adorned with prayer flags, terraced fields, and ancient monasteries. The trail meanders through dense forests and crosses high mountain passes like Laurebina La (4,610 meters), offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Throughout the trek, you will encounter friendly Sherpa and Tamang communities, whose traditional lifestyles have remained largely unchanged over the centuries. You can visit monasteries, interact with locals in teahouses, and gain insight into their customs and daily routines. The warmth and hospitality of the people add a special charm to the trekking experience.

The Langtang Gosainkunda and Helambu trek is a moderate-level trek suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The altitude gains are gradual but steady, allowing for proper acclimatization. Trekkers typically stay in teahouses or lodges along the route, providing basic yet comfortable accommodation and local cuisine.

This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you are captivated by the majestic Himalayan peaks, intrigued by ancient traditions, or simply seeking solitude in the lap of nature, the Langtang Gosainkunda and Helambu trek promises an unforgettable journey through some of Nepal's most spectacular landscapes.

Trip Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft), you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the rest of the day free to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a bustling tourist hub in Kathmandu renowned for its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. You'll have an initial briefing about your trek and necessary preparations. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Today is reserved for sightseeing in Kathmandu, a city rich in cultural heritage. After breakfast, you'll visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples; Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley; Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River; and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal and a center of Tibetan Buddhism. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trek briefing where you'll meet your trekking guide, review the trek itinerary, and make final preparations for your adventure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

After an early breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the gateway to the Langtang Valley. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, terraced fields, and rural villages. The road winds along the Trishuli River, offering views of the Himalayan foothills and glimpses of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu ranges in the distance. Upon reaching Syabrubesi, a small village on the banks of the Bhote Koshi River, you'll check into your lodge and rest for the evening. Overnight stay in Syabrubesi.

Today marks the first day of your trek. After breakfast, you'll follow the trail along the Langtang Khola, crossing suspension bridges and passing through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. The trail ascends gradually, offering occasional views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m) and other snow-capped peaks. You'll pass through Bamboo Village and continue to Lama Hotel, located at 2,380m/7,809ft. The trek takes about 6 hours, and upon arrival, you'll check into your tea house and relax for the evening. Overnight stay in Lama Hotel.

Leaving Lama Hotel, the trail continues through dense forests and alongside the Langtang Khola. You'll pass through Ghoda Tabela (2,970m), where you'll find lodges and small tea houses. The trail gradually ascends to Langtang village (3,430m), which was significantly affected by the earthquake in 2015 but is now being rebuilt. Continuing on, you'll reach Mundu at 3,543m/11,625ft, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Langtang Lirung and other surrounding peaks. The trek takes approximately 6-7 hours. Overnight stay in Mundu.

Today's trek takes you further into the Langtang Valley, following the trail that ascends gradually through yak pastures and stone-built houses of Tibetan influence. The trail offers stunning views of the Langtang range. You'll arrive at Kyangjin Gompa (3,870m/12,697ft), a Buddhist monastery surrounded by mountains, in about 4-5 hours. In the afternoon, you can explore the area, visit the monastery, and a cheese factory where traditional yak cheese is produced. Overnight stay in Kyangjin Gompa.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration around Kyangjin Gompa. You'll hike up to Tserko Ri (5,000m/16,405ft), a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Langtang range including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Langshisa Ri, and other peaks. The hike takes approximately 7-8 hours round trip. You'll return to Kyangjin Gompa for another night's stay, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude.

After breakfast, you'll begin your descent back along the same trail towards Lama Hotel. The trek takes about 6-7 hours as you retrace your steps through Langtang village and Bamboo Village, enjoying the familiar sights and sounds of the Langtang Valley. Overnight stay in Lama Hotel.

Leaving Lama Hotel, the trail descends through dense forests and alongside the Langtang Khola. You'll pass through villages like Bamboo and Pairo before ascending to Thulo Syabru, a Sherpa village located at 2,230m/7,317ft. The trek takes approximately 5-6 hours, offering views of Ganesh Himal and other peaks in the distance. Overnight stay in Thulo Syabru.

Today's trek is shorter, taking about 3-4 hours. The trail ascends through forests and offers views of the Langtang range. You'll reach Shin Gompa (also known as Chandanbari), a small settlement with a monastery and cheese factory. The place offers beautiful views of Langtang Himal and the surrounding landscapes. Overnight stay in Shin Gompa.

Leaving Shin Gompa, the trail ascends through forests of rhododendron and juniper. You'll pass through Cholang Pati before reaching Laurebina Pass (4,609m/15,121ft), which offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Lirung. Descending from the pass, you'll arrive at Gosaikunda, a sacred lake revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. The trek takes about 5-6 hours. Overnight stay near Gosaikunda.

Today's trek involves crossing several smaller lakes, including Saraswati Kund and Bhairav Kund, before ascending to Lauribina Pass (4,609m/15,121ft). From the pass, the trail descends through rugged landscapes and pastures to Ghopte at 3,439m/11,283ft. The trek takes about 6-8 hours, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay in Ghopte.

Leaving Ghopte, the trail descends through rhododendron forests and traditional villages inhabited by the Tamang people. You'll pass through Tharepati before reaching Melamchigaon at 2,560m/8,399ft. The trek takes approximately 6-7 hours, offering cultural insights and scenic views of the Himalayan landscapes. Overnight stay in Melamchigaon.

Continuing along the trail, you'll pass through forests and terraced fields, ascending to Ama Yangri (3,800m/12,467ft) for panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa. Descending from the viewpoint, you'll reach Tarkeghyang, a Sherpa village with a monastery and cultural heritage. The trek takes about 5-6 hours. Overnight stay in Tarkeghyang.

Today's trek involves a pleasant walk through forests and villages, passing through Gangyul and Chumnik before reaching Sermathang at 2,610m/8,563ft. The trek takes about 3-5 hours, offering views of the Himalayan foothills and traditional Tamang settlements. Overnight stay in Sermathang.

The final day of trekking descends to Melamchi Bazaar, where you'll catch a vehicle for the drive back to Kathmandu. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, passing through rural landscapes and alongside the Melamchi River. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you'll check into your hotel and have the rest of the day free for leisure or last-minute shopping. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight or extend your stay to explore more of Nepal. If time permits, you can visit additional sites in Kathmandu or participate in optional activities such as mountain flights or cultural tours. This concludes your Langtang Gosaikunda and Helambu Trek, a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and Himalayan adventure.

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Route Map

Langtang Gosaikunda and Helambu Trek

Map

Includes

  • Airport transportation (pick-up and drop-off)
  • 3 nights accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Tea house accommodations during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • All ground transportation as per the itinerary in a comfortable private vehicle
  • English-speaking trained and experienced trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 clients)
  • Staff costs including salary, insurance, and equipment (including a down jacket for porter)
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS card, Langtang National Park entry permit)
  • All government and local taxes
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason) money is not refund

Doesn't Include

  • Personal trekking equipment (e.g., sleeping bag, trekking poles)
  • Personal expenses such as cold drinks and alcohol during the trek
  • Hot showers and charging facilities for electronic devices during the trek
  • Internet usage fees and battery charging costs during the trek
  • Meals during your stay in Kathmandu (apart from breakfasts included in the hotel)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Any additional expenses not mentioned in the "Included" section

Upcoming Departure Dates

1 Nov 2024
From Kathmandu
17 Nov 2024
To Kathmandu
7
seats left
From 1,690
US$ 1,590
Saving US$ 100
1 Dec 2024
From Kathmandu
17 Dec 2024
To Kathmandu
9
seats left
From 1,690
US$ 1,590
Saving US$ 100
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Equipment List

Travel Document
  • Valid passport
  • valid visa
  • 2 PP size photo for permit
  • personal insurance(Medical and
  • Emergency Rescue)
  • Emergency contact Family/company
  • contact number
  • Credit card
Toiletries
  • Hand Sanitizers and hand wash
  • Wet Tissue
  • Toothbrush
  • Bath Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Laundry soap
  • Garbage bag
  • Period Pad for women )
Upper Body
  • Short Sleeved shirt / T-shirts
  • Lightweight Top/ Thermo coat
  • Synthetic or fleece jacket
  • Down insulated jacket
  • Windproof jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket
Hand and head
  • Lightweight synthetic liner glove
  • Wind stopper fleece gloves
  • Sun cap
  • Wool/fleece hat
  • Neck gaiter /high neck
Lower Body
  • Underwear
  • Lightweight ling underpants
  • Trekking pants
  • Gore-Tex pants
  • Trekking and climbing socks 5-6
  • pairs
Miscellaneous
  • Umbrella/Rain punch
  • Water proof stuff sacks
  • Power bank
Technical Devices and gear
  • Headlamp with Spare Batteries
  • Sleeping bag -20
  • Sun/ Glacier glasses UV protection
  • Day pack 45-55Lit
  • Water bottle
  • Pack towel
  • Trekking pole
  • Swiss knife
  • Slippers
  • Trekking boots
First Aid Kit
  • Sunscreen (50 spf)
  • Lips guard
  • Water purification tablets
  • Baby wipes or wet towels
  • Handy plaster
  • Crack bandage
  • Antibiotic ( ask your medical doctor
  • Paracitamol ( ask your medical
  • doctor
  • Aspirin ( ask your medical doctor
  • Sinex ( ask your medical doctor
  • Anti-diarrhea ( ask your medical
  • doctor
  • Brufen/Ibuprofen ( ask your
  • medical doctor
  • Diamox ( ask your medical doctor
  • Dexamethasone tablets ( ask your
  • medical doctor
  • Eye drop
  • Move, Sancho blam
  • Oxymeter, thermometer

Frequently Asked Questions

The best times to trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and the trails are at their most scenic.

This trek is considered moderate to challenging. The altitude gains are significant, reaching over 4,000 meters, and some parts of the trail can be steep and rugged. Previous trekking experience and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

Yes, trekkers need permits to enter the Langtang National Park and the Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park. The required permits are the Langtang National Park entry permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.

Accommodation ranges from teahouses to basic lodges along the trekking route. Teahouses provide simple meals and basic amenities such as beds and shared bathrooms. It's advisable to carry a sleeping bag, as the blankets provided may not be sufficient during colder seasons.

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern as the trek reaches altitudes above 4,000 meters. It's important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually to minimize the risk. If symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness) develop, it's crucial to descend to a lower altitude immediately.

ATM facilities are not available along the trekking route. It's advisable to carry enough Nepali currency (Nepalese Rupees) for the entire trek to cover expenses such as meals, accommodation, and any unforeseen circumstances.

Mobile network coverage is limited and unreliable in many parts of the Langtang Gosainkunda and Helambu trek route. Teahouses and lodges may offer limited WiFi, which may be slow and intermittent due to the remote location.

Popular extensions include the Tamang Heritage Trail, which explores the cultural diversity of the region, or a trek to Tserko Ri (4,984 meters), offering panoramic views of the Langtang Himalayas.

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is recommended for safety, navigation, cultural insights, and support with permits and accommodation bookings. Hiring a porter can also ease the physical demands of the trek.

Read more FAQs

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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal