The Langtang Gosaikunda and Helambu
Trek is a beautiful 17-day journey through Nepal, offering lush forests, quaint
villages, abundant wildlife, and astounding views of the majestic Himalayas. The
trek begins in Kathmandu, followed by an off-road drive through numerous bends
and deep gorge valleys to reach Syabrubesi, a Tamang village on the banks of
the Bhote Koshi River. Here, our trek officially starts. We first reach Kyanjin
Gompa and then climb Tserko Ri the following day, where we are rewarded with tremendous
views of the Langtang Lirung (7,200m/23,622ft) range. Continuing our trek
through the beautiful Langtang Valley, we arrive at Gosaikunda, a revered
pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. This area is named after the
glistening Gosaikunda Lake, whose waters are believed to possess magical
healing powers. We pass several more lakes and cross the Laurebina Pass,
marking the beginning of our trek in the Helambu Valley. A highlight of the
hike is reaching the top of Ama Yangri at 3,800m. The view of the Himalayas
from this vantage point is said to rival that of Poon Hill, with Mt.
Shishapangma and the Langtang ranges appearing so close it feels as though you
could touch them. We continue trekking through the Helambu region for a few
more days, concluding our remarkable mountain journey with a drive back to
Kathmandu.<o:p></o:p>
17: Days
Age: 8
Trip Grade: moderate
Max. Altitude: 4,984m / 16,404ft
Transport: Private vehicle/Bus
Best Season:March- March September-December
Destination:Nepal
Start/End:Kathmandu-Langtang-Kathmandu
Departure Location:Kathmandu
Included:
Excluded:
Tour Plan / Itinerary
1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, we will welcome you and transfer you to your reserved hotel. After you have refreshed from your long flight, we will invite you to attend a briefing session where you will learn more about your trip. During this session, you will meet your tour and trekking guide and discuss the equipment required for the trek. If you arrive at night, this discussion will take place the next morning after breakfast.
2
Preparation for Trekking and Kathmandu City Tour
After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley's religious and historical sites. Visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Hindu holy temple of Pashupatinath, the famous Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), the Buddhist shrine Bouddhanath (one of the largest stupas in the world), and the historic Durbar Square. This guided city tour offers a deep dive into ancient Nepalese culture. Upon returning to your hotel, enjoy some free time to explore the area. You can stroll along the bustling Thamel tourist street and have dinner at a local restaurant.
3
Drive to Syabrubesi (1,550m/5,100ft): 7-8 hours by Jeep
After an early morning breakfast, we depart from Kathmandu and head towards Syabrubesi, the starting point for trekking in the Langtang Valley. Our journey takes us along a winding road with frequent turns. On a clear day, we can enjoy exceptional views of Manaslu, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal. The day's journey concludes with a descent into the small town of Syabrubesi, where we will spend the night.
4
Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,380m/7,830ft): 6-7 hours walking
On the first day of our trek, we cross the Bhote Koshi River, which flows down from Tibet, and follow the Langtang Khola. After visiting Gompa Rinpoche Gompa, we follow the cobbled main road out of the town above Langtang Khola. Crossing a suspension bridge, the path gradually ascends through a landslide area to reach bamboo groves. The route leads through a subtropical forest filled with oaks, maples, giant firs, and blue pines. As we trek through oak and rhododendron forests, we may encounter diverse wildlife, including yellow-throated martens, wild boars, langur monkeys, red pandas, and black bears. The trail gently climbs to Rimche, and after crossing a small bridge, we reach the Lama Hotel, situated atop a steep hill. We will spend the night at the Lama Hotel.
5
Trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,543m/11,621ft): 4-5 hours walking
After leaving the Lama Hotel, we head towards Langtang Village, a beautiful settlement surrounded by mountains and glaciers, inhabited by Buddhist Tamang and Sherpa communities. The trek follows the Langtang River, leading us to the Ghoda Tabela grasslands. After approximately 4 hours of climbing, we will have lunch at Ghoda Tabela, which offers a fascinating view of the green meadows and the Langtang range. We will spend the night in a standard tea house in Langtang Village.
6
Trek to Kyangjin Gompa (3,870m/12,697ft): 4-5 hours walking
After breakfast, we set out for Kyangjin Gompa, the main monastery in the region. The trail winds through the village and up a ridge crowned by a large chorten. It then gradually climbs over an impressive mani wall and crosses a stream into the small town of Mundu. After crossing several streams via wooden bridges and traversing moraines, we will see the Kyangjin Gompa Monastery and the spectacular ice waterfall flowing from the peaks of Langtang Lirung and Kimshung. The surrounding area is also notable for its famous state-run cheese factory. After lunch, you can explore the village and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Mt. Langtang Lirung, Mt. Kyangjin RI, Langshisha-Ri, Tsergo RI, Dorje Lhakpa, Pico Yala, and Naya Kang.
7
Acclimatization: Explore Tserko Ri (5,000m/16,404ft): 7-8 hours
We dedicate the entire day to exploring Tserko Ri, which also aids in acclimatizing to the altitude. Starting early in the morning, the path leads through yak grasslands before ascending to Tserko Ri. The sunrise view from the top is exceptional. In the late afternoon, we will return to Kyangjin Gompa, where you can explore the beautiful monastery and enjoy the sights of birds, yaks, the Himalayas, and glaciers.
8
Return to Lama Hotel (2,380m/7,830ft): 6 hours walking
After breakfast, we begin our return trek to Lama Hotel. Most of today's journey is downhill, taking us through forests and beautiful villages. Along the way, we can enjoy different views of the Himalayas that we missed while ascending. We will spend the night at the Lama Hotel.
9
Trek from Lama Hotel to Thulo Syabru (2,230m/7,316ft): 5-6 hours walking
We begin our trek with an ascent to the village of Rimche. Descending from there, we reach the banks of the Langtang Khola. Continuing on an easy trail, we pass through Bamboo and ascend to the Landslide Lodge. From here, our path continues to Thulo Syabru. Upon crossing another bridge, we follow the route past Hotel Pahare and a waterfall, ultimately arriving at Thulo Syabru. We will spend the night in a lodge at Thulo Syabru.
10
Trek from Thulo Syabru to Shin Gompa (3330m/10989ft): 3-4 hours walking
Instead of continuing to Gosaikundawe due to altitude considerations, we opt for a more gradual ascent towards Shin Gompa, where we will rest. Today's path winds uphill through rhododendron forests, passing by a cheese factory where you can sample local cheeses. En route, you'll traverse villages like Garta and pass by the Phulung Monastery. Accommodation tonight will be in a tea house at Shin Gompa.
11
Trek from Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda (4,460m/14,632ft): 5-6 hours walking
Leaving Shin Gompa behind, we trek towards Gosaikunda, which promises to be the highlight of our journey. Along the way, we will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang ranges. Our route takes us up to Laurebinayak first. Continuing through rocky terrain, we eventually arrive at Gosaikunda, a glacial lake of immense religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists. This site is particularly revered during the Janai Purnima pilgrimage. We will spend the night in a tea house at Gosaikunda.
12
Trek from Gosaikunda to Ghopte (3,440m/11,286ft): 6-8 hours walking
Early in the morning, we explore the lakeshore of Gosaikunda before ascending to Laurebina Pass. The trail marks the beginning of the Helambu region at Lauribina La (pass) and descends into the Melamchi valley. It's a rugged path through moraines, but well-marked with cairns. Passing by three more small lakes, we eventually reach the pass, where a short climb offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area. Continuing through Surya Kunda, we finally arrive at Ghopte. We will spend the night in Ghopte.
13
Trek from Ghopte to Melamchigaon (2,560m/8,399ft): 6-7 hours walking
Today's trek takes us along a path that undulates through dense forests. Passing through the forested trail, we reach the village of Thare Pati. Climbing over a ridge beyond the village, we continue our journey. The view from the ridge overlooking the Nepalese hills, especially from Soli Danda, is stunning. Along the way, we cross two suspension bridges before arriving at Melamchigaon, a picturesque village with a monastery. We will spend the night in Melamchigaon.
14
Trek from Melamchigaon to Tarkeghyang (2,590m/8,497ft): 5-6 hours walking
After breakfast, we pass by a stupa and cross a small stream below Tarkeghyang. Our path winds through forests towards Ama Yangri, today's highest point at 3,800m. At the summit, adorned with a stupa and Buddhist prayer flags, we are treated to breathtaking views of Mount Shishapangma and the Langtang region. The mountains appear so close that they seem within reach. Descending, we often spot yaks grazing amidst shrubbery before entering a forest. Trekking along a rocky trail, we eventually arrive at Tarkeghyang, a picturesque Sherpa village. We will spend the night in Tarkeghyang.
15
Trek from Tarkeghyang to Sermathang: 3-5 hours walking
After breakfast, we begin our trek towards Sermathang. The trail gradually descends, making for an easier journey as the oxygen levels increase. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Helambu village, as well as the Ganesh, Jugal, and Langtang Himalayan ranges. The trek passes through various lush forests, villages, monasteries, and fields. We will spend the night in Sermathang.
16
Trek to Melamchi Bazaar and drive to Kathmandu
Today marks your final day in this region. You will trek through meadows, fields, and picturesque villages to reach Melamchi Bazaar. Upon arrival, board a bus for approximately 2 hours to return to Kathmandu. Take some time to rest and then shop for souvenirs to take home with you. If you're feeling energetic and have time, stroll through the lively streets of Thamel to enjoy live music and other activities.
17
Final Departure
Today marks your departure from Nepal. Our office representative will accompany you to the airport according to your departure schedule. If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal for a few more days, we can assist in planning additional activities to further enhance your experience.
Map Overview
This area is named after the glistening Gosaikunda Lake, whose waters are believed to possess magical healing powers. We pass several more lakes and cross the Laurebina Pass, marking the beginning of our trek in the Helambu Valley. A highlight of the hike is reaching the top of Ama Yangri at 3,800m. The view of the Himalayas from this vantage point is said to rival that of Poon Hill, with Mt. Shishapangma and the Langtang ranges appearing so close it feels as though you could touch them.
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