LANGTANG AND GOSAIKUNDA TREK:
The Langtang and Gosaikunda Trek route is along an ancient Hindu pilgrimage trail. Sandwiched between the main Himalayan range to the North and a lower range of peaks to the South, the Langtang region was designated as Nepal’s first Himalayan national park in 1971. Despite its proximity to Kathmandu Langtang and Gosaikunda receive far fewer trekkers compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions.
The Gosaikunda lakes, believed to be the abode of the Hindu God Shiva and his consort Gauri, lies east of Langtang. According to legend, after Lord Shiva had swallowed poison, he thrust his trident into a mountain to extract water to cool his stinging throat creating a lake. There are 108 big and small lakes in the area.
THE TREK
The Langtang and Gosaikunda trek begins with an ascent up the Langtang valley. Thereafter, after ascending Kyanjin-ri for mountain views, descend back to just below Lama Hotel. Then turn north-east to the austere, high-elevation Gosainkund Lakes. After reaching Gosaikunda, continue east over the Laurebina La pass (4,610m/15,100ft). Finally, the trek ends at the sacred Helambu Valley where Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava) is believed to have frequented.
ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS
The Langtang and Gosaikunda Trek is a lodge trek. Consequently, you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on the Langtang portion of the trek are comparable to those on the Annapurna treks. However, the lodges on the Gosaikunda portion are slightly more basic but, still, clean. Meals are also varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on Lodge treks in Nepal.
BEST SEASON
Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Langtang and Gosaikunda Lakes trek are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). Additionally, it is also possible to do this trek in December. Furthermore, while it will be cold (-20C/-4F), it is possible to do the Langtang section of the trek even in the Winter months of January and February too.
TREK RATING
The Langtang and Gosaikunda Lakes trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest altitude reached on the trek is at Laure Binayak la (4,380 m/14,370 ft). The highest overnight elevation is at Laure Binayak (3,910m/12,380 feet). Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 7 hours on the crossing of the pass. Regardless of this, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.
WHY TREK WITH US?
All our Langtang and Gosaikunda treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies may advertise trips for very low prices. But they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff.
We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…