Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek

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Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 4984
  • Group Size 2-6
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Chisapani
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, Septmeber-November

Highlights

  • A wonderful excursion in the Langtang and Helambu regions that intertwines adventure with the cultural experience
  • Adventure trek with Laurebina La Pass crossing
  • Explore the wilderness splendor of Langtang National Park and Shivapuri National Park
  • The trekking route is near Kathmandu
  • Get to know Tamang and Hyolmo communities
  • Contribute to uplifting the lives of the locals by doing this trek
  • Witness stunning mountain vistas and beautiful landscapes
  • Explore the beautiful Gosaikunda Lake

Overview

The Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek is an adventurous hike in Langtang National Park and Shivapuri National Park. The trek starts from Syabrubesi and hikes to the beautiful Langtang Valley. You will follow the Langtang River and rhododendron and bamboo forests to Kyanjin Gompa (3,865 m/12,675 ft).

On the way, spend nights in Lama Hotel (2,470 m/8,103 ft) and Langtang village (3,430 m/11,255 ft). From Kyanjin Gompa, you will go on a final hike to Tserko Ri (5,033 m/16,512 ft) in the valley and return to Lama Hotel. Then, the trek continues to Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m/14,370 ft). It is one of the sacred lakes. The trail is more rugged and offbeat to Gosaikunda.

On the way, you can also visit Saraswati Kund and Bhairva Kund lakes. The trail goes through dense forests, and you will spend nights in Thulo Syabru (2,210 m/8,500 ft) and Laurebina (3,920 m/12,861 ft) villages. After Gosaikunda, you will cross Lauribina La Pass (4,610 m/15,115 ft).

Even though this pass is not as high as other famous passes in Nepal, crossing it is equally thrilling. The trail is steep and rocky, with narrow tracks. Once you reach the top of the pass, a breathtaking mountain panorama will unfold ahead of you.

From here, the trail descends and enters the Helambu region. Trekking through dense forests and terraced fields, you will pass by villages like Ghopte, Tharepati, Kutumsang, and Gul Bhanjyang. These villages are home to the Hyolmo community, an Indigenous group in Nepal.

As you descend from Gul Bhanjyang (2,140 m/7,021 ft), trek through the Shivapuri National Park and pass by Chisapani (2,215 m/7,267 ft). The trek ends in Sundarijal (1,380 m/4,530 ft). From here, you will drive to Kathmandu in a local jeep. It will be around a two-hour ride.

Tamang & Hyolmo communities

Tamangs are the main inhabitants of the Langtang region, while Hyolmo are natives of the Helambu region. Both are indigenous Nepali communities with rich cultural heritage and unique languages, practices, and beliefs.

Tamangs are believed to be the descendants of Tibetans, and their customs are very similar to those of Tibetans. Tibetan Buddhism lies at the center of both these communities' religious beliefs. Hyolmos, especially, are the followers of Tibetan Buddhism of the Nyingma sect.

Their religious practices also involve elements of animism and paganism, which are found in Bon. You will be warmly welcomed by both of these communities. Their hospitality and kind hearts make the trek more satisfying.

Gosaikunda Lake

Gosaikunda Lake is a sacred lake that is important to Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is situated at 4,380 meters and offers stunning scenery. It is also a pilgrimage area that sees huge numbers of devotees during the Janari Purnima festival. It falls in August.

According to Hindu mythology, Gosaikunda Lake is Lord Shiva's creation. He struck a glacier with his trident to quench his thirst after drinking poison that was about to destroy the world. The hole in the glacier formed the Gosaikunda Lake.

The lake is beautiful, with turquoise water, greenery, and snow-capped mountains surrounding it.

Is this trek suitable for you?

The Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek is challenging. It involves 6 hours of walking daily and offbeat terrain. Trekkers have to be strong to walk on steep slopes that frequently ascend and descend. Many sections of the trail are also rocky.

So, you have to be fit to do this trek. Likewise, the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek route is close to Kathmandu. The trail starting and ending point is quickly accessible from the city. If you want to be near Kathmandu while exploring the Himalayas and enjoy stunning mountain vistas, this trek is a fantastic option.

We also love this trek for its adventure, scenery, tranquility, and interactions with the locals. Unlike the Annapurna and Everest regions, the trail is not crowded. You will see impressive views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Shishapangma, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar, etc, mountains. Likewise, you will see many glaciers, waterfalls, and river views.

Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek preparation and packing

To prepare for the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek, exercise daily for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Improve your stamina and endurance and build a long-distance walking habit. You must be physically and mentally ready to enjoy the trek to the fullest.

Likewise, follow the below packing list while buying trekking clothes, gear, and other essentials:

  • Comfortable, breathable underwear
  • Base layer and thermal layer
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Thermal socks, gloves, beanie, and scarf
  • Dry towel
  • Hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and a causal pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and day pack
  • Trekking poles, UV ray protection sunglass, sun hat, sleeping bag and liner
  • Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Portable torch, knife, map
  • Personal first aid kit (bandaids, insect repellant, ointment, hand sanitizer, crack bandage, pain relief gel/spray, general medicine, etc)
  • Toiletries (deodorant, SPF, lip balm, toilet paper, wet tissues, moisturizer, comb, toothpaste/brush, soap, etc)
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, ORS (electrolyte powder)
  • Cash, travel insurance documents, passport-size photo, valid passport, travel visa

Combine Tamang Heritage trail to complete a circuit

Tamang Heritage Trail is a community trekking route in the Langtang region. Combining this route in your Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek itinerary will allow you to dive deep into the daily life of the locals and also contribute a lot to the community.

Safety and best price with Top Of The World Adventure's team

We have the best trek service in Nepal. Our many years of expertise in the travel industry make us a reliable travel partner for the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake Helambu trek 15 days. You can follow our itinerary or customize it according to your needs.Likewise, we assure you of a safe trek. Our office team will arrange the logistics, and the local guides will ensure your safety during the trek. We have both group and private departures available. Most importantly, you will get the most reasonable Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek cost with us.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need help in booking the trek.

Trekking Route Details

DayTrekking RouteDistance (Kilometers)Duration (Hours)Altitude (Meters)
01Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel1350
02Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi~122 km71450
03Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel~11 km5-62470
04Trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village~14 km5-63430
05Trek from Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa~7 km3-43870
06Acclimatization hike to Tserko Ri and return~6-7 km (one way)5-64984
07Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel~21 km6-72470
08Trek from Lama Hotel to Thulo Syabru~11 km5-62210
09Trek from Thulo Syabru to Laurebina~11 km5-63910
10Trek from Laurebina to Gosainkunda Lake~9 km4-54380
11Trek from Gosainkunda to Ghopte via Laurebina Pass~13 km6-73530 (Ghopte)
12Trek from Ghopte to Gul Bhanjyang~15 km6-72140
13Trek from Gul Bhanjyang to Chisapani~14 km5-62140
14Trek from Chisapani to Sundarijal, drive to Kathmandu~10 km + 15 km drive4-5 trekking1380 (Sundarijal)
15Kathmandu SightseeingVaries1350
16Final Departure1350

Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Kathmandu Ends to: Chisapani
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Arrive at the Kathmandu Airport and meet our representatives at our airport office. They will be carrying your nameplate so that you can identify them easily. We will share more details about them as well. Our team will escort you to the hotel. Rest for a while, and later, meet us to prepare for the trek.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will drive to the trailhead today. Leave Kathmandu early in the morning and drive to Syabrubesi, the gateway to the Langtang region. The ride will be long and beautiful. On the way, you will see stunning scenery of lush hills, waterfalls, terraced fields, and mountains.

  • Max Altitude: 1503m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Start the trek today. Wake up early and have a big breakfast. Afterward, you will walk, following lush forested hills and rugged hillsides. Gradually descend to Bhote Koshi River and trek from here across Langtang Khola. You will reach a place called Bamboo and trek through rhododendron forests to Lama Hotel.

 

  • Max Altitude: 2470m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

From Lama Hotel to Langtang village, the trail goes along the Langtang River and ascends via dense forests. On the way, you will witness excellent mountain views.

Further, follow a narrow river valley that will take you to Ghoda Tabela. Cross the east side of Langtang River as you ascend to Langtang village. Explore ancient stupas and chortens on the way.

 

  • Max Altitude: 3430m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

The trail ascends to Kyajin Gompa. It is the highest settlement in the Langtang Valley. Leaving Langtang village, you will gradually ascend through forested hills and cross lush meadows. The trail gets steep as you get close to Kyanjin Gompa. The scenery is superb from here.

  • Max Altitude: 3865m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

You will go on an acclimatization hike early in the morning. Follow an offbeat trail to Tserko Ri. It is a viewpoint. The trail gets quite steep and rocky, so you have to be careful.

Upon reaching here, you can see a gorgeous sunrise and breathtaking views of mountains like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Shishapangma, Yala Peak, Dorje Lakpa, etc. After the hike, you will also explore the local yak cheese factory.

 

  • Max Altitude: 5023m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Today, you will descend back to Lama Hotel. It will be a long descent. You will start walking downhill early in the morning, following the same trail you used to climb to Kyanjin Gompa. On the way, pass by Langtang village and enjoy stunning mountain vistas.

  • Max Altitude: 2470m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Now, you will start trekking towards Gosaikunda Lake. The trail first descends along the Langtang Khola. You will pass by bamboo and rhododendron forests. As you trek further, you will cross a suspension bridge and enjoy beautiful views of Ganesh Himal.

  • Max Altitude: 2210m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail mostly ascends today, so it will be a full day of mostly uphill hiking. Pass by small villages and rhododendron forests to a ridge. From here, the trail gradually widens and ascends to Lurebina. On a clear day, you can see fantastic views of the Manaslu range, Langtang range, and Ganesh Himal range while trekking.

  • Max Altitude: 3920m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail climbs a broad ridge following a narrow rocky path. The trekking duration is short today, so you will have ample time to rest and recover. Note that there is no guesthouse or tea shop on this route. On the way, you can see views of Saraswati Kund and Bhairab Kund. Enjoy the beauty of Gosaikunda Lake throughout the day. 

 

  • Max Altitude: 4380m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

On this day, you will cross the Lauribina La Pass. From Gosaikunda Lake, descend following the northern shore. The trail slowly begins to go uphill, leading you to the top of the pass. The terrain is steep and rocky. The mountain view from the pass is incredible. From here, descend to Ghopte village.

  • Max Altitude: 3530m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You have entered the Helambu region. From Ghopte, the trail goes through dense forests and ascends for an hour to Tharepati. Along the trail, you can see outstanding views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal in the west and the Jugal Himal range in the east.

Descend to Kutumsang village and follow a zigzag route to Gul Bhanhyang. Here, you will see the unique lifestyles of the Hyolmo, Tamang, and Sherpa communities.

 

  • Max Altitude: 2140m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

From Gul Bhanhyang to Chisapani, you will mostly descend through forested hills, terraced fields, and small settlements. In three hours of trekking, you will reach Pati Bhanhyang and ascend to Chisapani Danda. It is one of the famous short hiking points near Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 2215m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Descend from Chisapani to Sundarijal. The trail goes through lush forests. Sundarijal is the ending point of the trek. You will drive back to Kathmandu in a comfortable jeep. The ride is short. Settle in your hotel in Thamel. The rest of the day is free.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel

It is your free day in Kathmandu. With your guide, visit tourist sites like the Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Explore local markets and try local dishes. It is also your last day, so buy souvenirs.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel

The trip ends. Our team will drop you at the international airport. Before leaving your room, make sure to double-check it. You can also extend your trip with us in Nepal.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Still Confuse?

Download brochure or customize your trip.

Route Map

Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek Map

Altitude Graph

Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek

Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • For transfers to and from the airport, a private vehicle
  • Two nights with breakfast at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu
  • Every trekking permit required (TIMS, Langtang National Park Permit)
  • Seven nights spent in teahouses or homestays
  • Guide licensed by the government
  • The guide's pay, insurance, lodging, and transportation
  • Farewell cultural dinner
  • Trekking duffel bag
  • Free storage for luggage
  • Trek completion certificate

Excludes

  • Meals while trekking and staying in Kathmandu
  • Porter service (optional)
  • Any airplanes
  • Insurance for Travel
  • Personal hiking equipment
  • Advice for the guide or porter

Add-ons and Options

Get the most out of your visit to Gosaikunda:

  • Option for a Luxury Lodge: Whenever possible, move up to a cozier room.
  • Porter Service: To move your belongings, hire a specialized porter.
  • Yoga & Wellbeing: Participate in yoga classes led by guides while trekking.
  • Photography Package: To assist you in documenting your journey, a photography guide is provided.

Additional Info

Guide and porter during the trek

Our experienced guide and porter team will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek. Equipped with a satellite phone, our leader guides will be in constant communication with the group, providing a sense of security during the entire trek.

Our field crew will get you the best rooms and services, ensure your safety, help you acclimatize, and share about the region and the locals. They will basically enhance your trek and make it seamless, fun, and exciting.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is inevitable during treks like Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake and Helambu. However, you can avoid it by acclimatizing and staying hydrated. Our itinerary provides you ample time to acclimate before you reach Tserko Ri. Likewise, our guide will help you get used to the elevation and monitor your health.

Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you see them, consult your guide and get medicine.

  • Headache
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Insomnia
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Trek difficulty

Crossing Laurebina La Pass is the most difficult part of this trek. Not only that, but the trek route is also offbeat in some sections. You will start the trek following rugged trails, and gradually, it gets rocky and steep as you get close to Gosaikunda Lake. Therefore, trekkers have to be physically strong.

In addition, the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek also demands mental fitness because you have to push yourself a lot. Daily 5 to 6 hours of walking are required, along with high-altitude challenges.

Accommodation

Accommodation during the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek is a guest house. It is a simple accommodation where trekkers spend nights in the houses of the locals. Tea houses are also available in some villages. Both are basic accommodations.

Twin shared rooms are booked for the trekkers. You have to pay extra money for single rooms. Washrooms are common, too. Western-style toilets are available in many villages, but you may also have to use squat toilets in some places.

Likewise, charging and hot shower services are available in all villages, but both cost a few extra bucks (USD 1 to USD 5). Sleeping rooms are small but cozy. We highly recommend a sleeping bag for this trek. Trekkers are advised to carry all essential toilets.

Meals

Meals during the trek are mainly Nepali and Tibetan dishes. You will have dal bhat at least once a day. It is a staple meal for Nepalese all over the country. Likewise, some commonly found dishes are fried rice, curry rice, eggs, meat, pancakes, pies, momo, chowmein, thukpa, thenduk, dhido, etc.

Pasta, sandwiches, burgers, French fries, and pizza are also available in some villages. The menu also has a variety of teas and coffees. You will also find boiled drinking water everywhere at a very reasonable price.

Travel insurance

The remote location of Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek and the risk of altitude sickness and other unseen events makes travel insurance important. It should cover helicopter evacuation and medical bills.

Note that the region is not connected to roads, and walking is the only way to commute. Once you are deep inside the region, it can take you up to 2 to 4 days to reach any road area. Therefore, air evacuation is a must in case of emergency, and you need travel insurance for the evacuation.

The best time to do the Tamang heritage trekking

You will enjoy the Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu trek most from March to May and September to November. These months have the best weather for trekking in the Himalayas. The temperature is not too hot or cold, so you will enjoy walking.

Likewise, from March to May, you will enjoy excellent spring blooms. Rhododendrons and many other wildflowers make the scenery extremely enchanting. The vegetation is also thriving. The mountains are crystal clear.

In September, October, and November, you may enjoy Nepali festivals. These are festival months in Nepal. Likewise, the mild climate and clear sky allow you to relish stunning vistas. Many travelers love to visit Nepal in these months to trek.

 

Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake & Helambu Trek FAQs

This trek is moderately challenging, involving about 6 hours of walking daily over varied terrain, including steep slopes, rocky paths, and offbeat trails. You need to be reasonably fit and prepared for continuous ascents and descents. However, the rewarding mountain views and cultural immersion make every step worthwhile!

The highest point you’ll reach is Tserko Ri at 4,984 meters. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to help your body adjust. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and listen to your guide’s advice to stay safe and healthy.

The best time to trek is March-May and September-November when the weather is generally clear and mild. Expect chilly mornings and evenings, especially at higher altitudes, and occasional rain during the shoulder seasons. Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable.

You’ll meet the Tamang and Hyolmo communities, indigenous groups known for their warm hospitality and rich traditions rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. Visiting their villages lets you witness unique customs, architecture, and lifestyles, adding a deeply human and authentic dimension to your adventure.

Accommodation is mainly cozy teahouses and lodges offering basic but comfortable rooms. Meals typically include Nepali staples like dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, and soups. Vegetarian options are available. Staying nourished and hydrated is easy with frequent stops and friendly local hosts.

Yes, the route is generally safe and well-traveled, but it remains remote and rugged. Your guides from Top of the World Adventure are experienced and prioritize your safety. Always follow their advice, watch your step on steep or rocky sections, and be prepared for changing weather.

Absolutely! Combining the Tamang Heritage Trail lets you deepen your cultural immersion and supports local communities. It’s a fantastic way to complete a full circuit and experience the diverse beauty and traditions of the Langtang region.

The trail starts and ends close to Kathmandu — just a 7-hour drive to Syabrubesi and a local jeep ride back from Sundarijal. This means you get to enjoy the Himalayas’ stunning scenery without long or complicated transfers.

We recommend at least 4 to 6 weeks of regular exercise focusing on stamina and endurance. Long-distance walking, cardio workouts, and strength training will help you enjoy the trek fully and reduce fatigue on the trail.