The Langtang Gosainkunda trek combines the glacier-carved Langtang Valley with the sacred alpine lakes of Gosainkunda (4,380 m) in a 12-day loop from Kathmandu. Walk up to Kyanjin Gompa beneath Langtang Lirung (7,227 m), climb Tserko Ri for a panorama of glaciers, then cross the high ridge via Thulo Syabru and Sing Gompa to the holy lakes, pilgrimage site of Lord Shiva, before descending to Dhunche.
No domestic flights are needed: the trailheads are a day's drive from Kathmandu. The trek is graded moderate to challenging, best from March–May and September–December, and passes Tamang villages, red panda forest and yak pastures. Transport, the Langtang National Park permit, guide, porters and lodges with meals are included.
The Langtang region is the closest major trekking area to Kathmandu, and this route shows its two finest sides. The Langtang Valley is a deep, U-shaped valley rising to the glaciers of Langtang Lirung, home to Tamang and Tibetan-influenced villages rebuilt after the 2015 earthquake. Gosainkunda is a cluster of high lakes on the other side of the ridge, one of Nepal's holiest sites, where thousands of pilgrims gather at the Janai Purnima festival in August.
The trek links the two via Thulo Syabru, a beautiful ridge-top village, and Sing Gompa (Chandanbari), with its old monastery and cheese factory. From Gosainkunda you can continue over the Laurebina Pass (4,610 m) to Helambu, or descend to Dhunche as in this itinerary.
| Trip fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 days from Kathmandu (10 days of trekking) |
| Highest point | Laurebina Pass viewpoint, 4,610 m (Tserko Ri 4,984 m optional) |
| Gosainkunda Lake | 4,380 m |
| Grade | Moderate to challenging |
| Start and finish | Syabrubesi and Dhunche, a day's drive from Kathmandu |
| Permit | Langtang National Park permit |
| Best time | March–May and September–December |
It is moderate to challenging. The Langtang Valley is gradual, but the climb from Thulo Syabru to Gosainkunda gains over 2,000 m in two days, with a night at Sing Gompa or Lauribina. Your acclimatisation in Kyanjin Gompa helps greatly.
October–November gives clear views; April brings rhododendrons. Gosainkunda is often frozen and snowbound in winter; check conditions before a December–February trek.
You should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours a day for several days in a row on hilly, uneven trails. Start training two to three months before the trek with long hill walks, stair climbing and cardiovascular exercise, and break in your boots before you travel.
The highest point is 4,984 m on Tserko Ri (optional) and 4,610 m near the Laurebina Pass, with a night at Gosainkunda (4,380 m). Most people feel the altitude a little: a mild headache, poor sleep, less appetite. Go slowly, drink 3–4 litres a day, skip the beer until you are back down, and tell your guide straight away if you feel worse. Going down is the cure that always works. Ask your doctor before you travel whether altitude medication makes sense for you.
The valleys are mild, but Kyanjin Gompa and Gosainkunda are cold at night, often below −10°C in late autumn. Gosainkunda can have snow from December to March.
The Langtang National Park permit is included.
Carry Nepali rupees for drinks, snacks, showers and charging, and get them in the city; mountain ATMs are rare and unreliable. Wi-Fi is available in many lodges for a small fee. A power bank is worth packing.
Buy boiled or filtered water at lodges or use purification tablets or a filter with a refillable bottle, instead of buying plastic bottles.
You need travel insurance that covers trekking to 5,000 m, medical care and helicopter rescue. We ask for your policy details before you arrive.
You can usually get a Nepal visa on arrival at the airport or apply online in advance. Check that your passport is valid for at least six months, and pack a few passport photos for permits.
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More trip options, quoted on request:
In Langtang National Park, north of Kathmandu, at about 4,380 m.
Hindu legend says Lord Shiva created the lake with his trident to cool his throat after drinking poison. Buddhists also revere it.
12 days from Kathmandu in this itinerary.
Moderate to challenging, with a steep climb from Thulo Syabru to Gosainkunda.
No. The trek starts and ends a day's drive from Kathmandu.
March–May and September–December.
It is possible with the right gear, but snow can block the trail and some lodges close.
At the full moon in July or August, when thousands of pilgrims visit the lake.
Yes, the Langtang National Park permit, included.
Red pandas live in the forest between Lama Hotel and Sing Gompa, but sightings are rare.
No. Kyanjin Ri is an easier alternative with great views.
The trek is priced per person with group discounts; see the price box.
