Situated to the north of the capital very famous trekking trail Langtang is the less visited by the tourists. Making a trek here somewhat more of an adventure. Here the high alpine scenery, with mountains visible from their base to their peaks. A trek up to the Langtang Valley has to be one of the most rewarding of the short trek available anywhere in Nepal. Langtang Trek starts after a day bus journey to Syabrubeshi and follows the Langtang Khola. Initially the trail passes through cultivated fields and grassy slopes, forests of rhododendron, bamboo and oak below to the Langtang village. Unfortunately, this langtang also hardest hit by earthquake 2015, entire village was destroyed by landslides in the Langtang valley. But still the trail is very nice and interesting. From Kyangin Gompa, the day trip to Tsergo Ri gives splendid views of peaks of Langtang, Jugal Himal and Langtang Lirung and Dorje Lakpa. This may also call Langtang Panorama View Trek.
After Langtang Valley Trek, the route follows to Gosainkunda where it has several sacred lakes, one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations for Hindu devotees. Gosainkunda is actually the largest among of three main lakes, the other two being the Saraswatikund and Bhairabkunda and more. Hindu legend has it that the lake was formed when the god Shiva plunged his trident (Trisul) into the ground in order to obtain water. Along this section of trail there are impressive views of the mountains including the Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang Himal ranges. Add to this glacial lakes, rhododendron forests, native flora and fauna, magnificent mountains, forest, animal, birds, monasteries all go to make this region a perfect destination.
Quick Facts
Starting Point: Syabrubesi (a 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu)
- Ending Point: Back to Syabrubesi
- Duration: 7-10 days
- Maximum Elevation: Tserko Ri at 4,984 meters (16,349 feet) or Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 meters (12,696 feet)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights
- Scenic Mountain Views: Close-up views of Langtang Lirung, Langshisa Ri, Dorje Lakpa, and other peaks.
- Cultural Experience: The trek passes through villages inhabited by Tamang and Sherpa communities with strong Tibetan influences.
- Kyanjin Gompa: A spiritual destination with a beautiful monastery, cheese factory, and panoramic mountain views.
- Rich Biodiversity: The Langtang National Park is home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, langur monkeys, and more. Forests are filled with oak, rhododendron, bamboo, and pine trees.
- Less Crowded: Compared to other popular treks like Annapurna and Everest, Langtang is less crowded and provides a quieter, more peaceful trekking experience.
Itinerary Overview
The following is a sample itinerary, though it can vary depending on time, pace, and acclimatization needs:
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,500 m / 4,921 ft)
- Day 2: Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,380 m / 7,808 ft)
- Day 3: Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,430 m / 11,253 ft)
- Day 4: Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m / 12,696 ft)
- Day 5: Acclimatization day at Kyanjin Gompa (side trips to Tserko Ri for panoramic views)
- Day 6: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel
- Day 7: Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi
- Day 8: Drive back to Kathmandu
Cost Details
Includes
- Bus tickets ( KTM-SYFROO-KTM)
- Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu
- City tour by private transport
- Transportation City –airport-city
- Langtang National Park permit
- TIMS Permits
- Trekking equipment such as down filled sleeping bag and duffel bag.
- An English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide
- Local porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers : 1 porter)
- Guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food and lodging
- 3 Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) along the way to trek
- Hot drinks (Tea and Coffee) during the meal time.
- Purified/Iodine Drinking water
- All lodge accommodations on twin sharing basis ( private room share toilet)
- A comprehensive first aid medical kit
Excludes
- City entrance fees in Kathmandu city
- Tour guide
- Food in Kathmandu
- Boiled / bottled water
- Hot shower
- Net / Wi-Fi charges
- Electronic device recharge
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance and evacuation charges
- Heli transport or other private transport
- Tips
Best Time to Trek
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy blooming rhododendrons and good weather.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and stable weather, ideal for trekking.
Required Permits
- Langtang National Park Entry Permit
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
Preparation Tips
- Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended, as there are steep sections.
- Altitude Awareness: While Langtang isn’t as high as some other treks, acclimatization days are recommended.
- Packing Essentials: Layered clothing, sturdy boots, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, and rain gear.
The Langtang Trek is often seen as one of Nepal's most rewarding treks for the short time required. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for natural beauty, culture, and a peaceful trekking experience closer to Kathmandu.