GANGJA LA PASS TREK
GANGJA LA PASS TREK
The Gangja La Pass (5130m) Trek has so much to offer while a stone’s throw from Kathmandu. Trekking into this region is a journey rich in Tibetan culture and Buddhist traditions. The Tamang villages will give you a close-up perspective of their unique style of dress and their smiling faces will warm your soul. Following trails through the Langtang region and Helambu Valley offer magnificent views of snow-covered peaks, raging rivers and diverse spectacular scenery.
Witness the resilience and devotion of villagers in the Langtang region as they rebuild their communities after the devastating 2015 earthquake. The Langtang Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Nepal which will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
The Langtang National Park is 25% forest ranging from subtropical to alpine and includes deciduous oak and maple, pine, and rhododendron (in full bloom in spring). Expect to see various native animals, such as the Himalayan black bear, Himalayan Tahr, Assam macaque and red pandas It is rumored that the fabled Yeti has been seen here too!
The trek starts at the small village of Syabru Besi following trails through enchanting pine, rhododendron and juniper forests. You will see Yak grazing in alpine pastures – especially near Kyanjin Gompa (Buddhist monastery). Kyanjin Gompa is the most sacred monastery for the Tamang. On the rest day, that helps you acclimatize, you can follow the trail to Kyanjin Ri (peak). The following day we head up to Ganja La Pass. If you are short of time you can take a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu from Kyanjin.
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking can tailor this trek to suit your needs. With over 40 years in the trekking business and an unblemished reputation, we will go out of our way to make this a memorable and safer journey.
Highlights of Gangja La Pass Trek
- You will trek through magnificent forests to the high alpine meadows and yak pastures around Kyanjin Gompa (a Buddhist monastery).
- Have 360-degree views of the Himalayan mountains.
- Wonder around and through Tamang villages while learning about their culture.
- Astonishing landscapes and authentic culture along with heartwarming hospitality in delightful home-stay guest houses
- Visit Buddhist Tibetan villages in Langtang Valley & explore Nepal’s first national park.
- Stunning views points of Chorkari Ri (5050m).
- Less tourists and more solitude and time to reflect.
- Experience first-hand Buddhist Tibetan culture.
- Moderate to difficult with rugged trails and forests at an altitude of over 3000m.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu transfer to hotel.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport you will be met by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking staff and transported to your hotel, followed by a short briefing concerning your trek.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi (1,460m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Leaving Kathmandu we set off on a seven hour journey by road heading to the Langtang Valley. As the road climbs out of Kathmandu Valley we will be afforded views of the Annapurna Mountains in the west and directly ahead to Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and the numerous peaks in the Langtang region. We first come to Trishuli Village and then continue climbing until we reach Dhunche and enter the Langtang National Park. After leaving Dhunche we drive for another hour downhill until we reach Syabru Besi where we stay the night.
Day 3 : Trek from Syabru Besi to Lama Hotel (2,470m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today takes us across the Bhote Kosi (meaning Tibet River) which flows from Tibet. The trail then climbs through sub-tropical forest and then joins the trail coming from Syabru Besi, and then ascends through oak and rhododendron forests. On the trail it is very likely we will encounter Langur monkeys in the tree tops. The trail continues up a steep incline before reaching the Lama Hotel where we stay the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,450m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today the trail takes us toward Ghode Tabala from where we will have our first views of the enormous mountain Langtang Lirung (7227m). The trail takes us through a Rhododendron forest – more spectacular during spring when it is in full pink bloom. There is also a national park office here. Today’s trek will take between four to five hours before reaching Langtang Village (3450m) where we will stay the night.
Day 5 : Trek from Langtang village to Kyanjin Gompa (3860m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today’s trek is relatively easy and takes about 3 hours but slowly gains altitude which necessitates taking it at a slower pace. The trail is not too difficult which gives you more time to appreciate the valley and mountain scenery. We eventually reach Kyanjin Gompa in the afternoon. If you feel more energetic you may decide to trek to Kyanjin Ri (4779m) and then return back to the hotel for the night.
Day 6 : Acclimatization day at Kyanjin Gompa.
This is essentially a rest day that will give you time to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes. Health professionals recommend staying active, so today we will trek to Cherko RI (4984m) or Tsergo Ri (5033m) and admire the amazing views from these peaks. It will take about 5 to 6 hours to complete the journey there and back. This is considered one of the best places to view the surrounding mountains of the Langtang region. Tonight we will stay at Kyanjin Gompa.
Day 7 : Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Kyanjin Phedi (4300m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast, we start on our four to five-hour trek to Ganja La Phedi. We cross the Langtang River and ascend through the rhododendrons forest. During the winter it might take us longer to cross the pass. We stay overnight at Kyanjin Phedi at the tea house /lodge/tent.
Day 8 : Trek from Kyanjin Phedi to Keldang (4280m) via Ganja La Pass (5,122m) Duration: 7-9 hours.
We have a long 8 to 9-hour challenging trek ahead of us today as we head to Ganja La Pass. It is most likely covered with snow as it is for most of the year. We pass a number of small lakes on the trail as we head to the rugged and desolate moraine at the pass. From the pass, we have magnificent views. We then descend to Keldang where we stay the night.
Day 9 : Trek from Keldang to Yakharka (4000m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast we head off on a five to six hour trek descending down the ridge, passing through forests and pasturelands before reaching Yakharka Village where we stay the night.
Day 10 : Trek from Yakharka to Tarke-Gang (2,590m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today the trail descends 1500 meters taking around five to six hours. As we descend the vegetation changes from being arider to more lush forests. Tonight we stay at Tarke-Gang.
Day 11 : Trek from Tarke- Gang to Sermathang (2,610m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trek today will follow the trail for around six to seven hours heading to Sermathang Village. Along the trail we will see many icons and evidence of the Sherpa culture, such as Mani stones, monasteries, and prayer flags. The trail takes us through more dense forests before reaching Sermathang Village where we will stay the night at a tea house or lodge.
Day 12 : Trek to Melamchi and drive to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.
On our last day we trek to Melamchi Bazaar where we have a lunch break and walk around the village before taking a bus back to Kathmandu.
Day 13 : Transfer to International Airport.
Today your adventure ends and you depart Nepal with fond memories and many photos of spectacular scenes from your trek to this amazing out of the way Langtang region of the Himalayas. A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you to the airport, approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in this mountainous wonderful – Nepal.
SERVICES
Costs are included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two nights’ standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Kathmandu to Syabrubesi transportation by Local Bus & Melamchi to Kathmandu transportations by private car.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) Tent camp accommodation during the trek.
- All necessary paperwork including Langtang National Park Entry Permit & Tims card fees.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfortable and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Langtang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Gangja La Pass Trek?
The Gangja La Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trekking route in Nepal. It takes you through remote and rugged terrain in the Langtang region, offering stunning mountain views, beautiful landscapes, and an adventurous crossing of the Gangja La Pass.
How long does the trek take?
The Gangja La Pass Trek usually takes around 8 to 18 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and the pace of the trekker. This duration includes acclimatization days and allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the region.
Is it a difficult trek?
Yes, the Gangja La Pass Trek is considered a difficult and strenuous trek. It involves steep ascents, challenging terrain, and a high-altitude pass crossing. Previous trekking experience, good physical fitness, and proper acclimatization are essential.
When is the best time to do the trek?
The best time to do the Gangja La Pass Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions. However, it is important to check weather conditions and consult with local authorities before attempting the pass crossing.
Are there any permits required?
Yes, for the Gangja La Pass Trek, you need to obtain a Langtang National Park entry permit. Additionally, if you plan to trek beyond Kyangjin Gompa, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the park entrance in Dhunche or Syabrubesi.
What are the highlights of the trek?
The highlights of the Gangja La Pass Trek include exploring the picturesque Langtang Valley, encountering diverse flora and fauna, witnessing breathtaking mountain views including Langtang Lirung and Dorje Lakpa, crossing the challenging Gangja La Pass, visiting the sacred lakes of Gosainkunda, and experiencing the unique culture of the local Tamang and Sherpa communities.
Are tea houses available along the trekking route?
Yes, there are tea houses available along the Gangja La Pass Trek route. However, the tea house facilities may be limited and more basic compared to popular trekking regions. It is advisable to carry some camping gear and food supplies for the higher altitude sections of the trek.
Is a guide necessary for the trek?
Due to the challenging nature of the Gangja La Pass Trek, it is highly recommended to have an experienced guide. A guide can provide valuable assistance with navigation, altitude sickness prevention, and ensure your safety during the pass crossing.
How can I reach the starting point of the trek?
The starting point of the Gangja La Pass Trek is usually Syabrubesi, which can be reached by a bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu. The journey takes around 7 to 8 hours.
What should I pack for the trek?
It is essential to pack proper trekking gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothing layers, a good sleeping bag, a backpack, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and basic medical supplies. Additionally, carry enough food supplies for the higher altitude sections and pack some cash as ATMs may not be available along the trek.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 7 Reviews
Steph Davis
Australia
December 6, 2023
Gangjola Pass Trek
With my wife we delighted in trekking with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking in Langtang Ganjala pass trekking of Langtang region. Found office on the web and chosen to believe them based on great recommendations. Everything was organized as concurred from trekking licenses to settlement in Kathmandu and airplane terminal taxi…etc. Guide knows well all around Ganja la trekking routes and their later state because it is common that a few trails are as of now collapsed due to common landslides! This can spare critical sum of time. Thank you for best Trip of the lifetime!!
Jackson Payne
United Kingdom
November 7, 2023
Exemplary customer service
The customer service provided by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking was exemplary. They were responsive to our inquiries, attentive to our needs, and went above and beyond to ensure that we had a memorable experience. Their dedication to customer satisfaction was truly commendable.
Farhad Faridpanah
Austria
November 1, 2023
A trek that challenges and rewards
The Langtang Ganjala pass trekking was a challenging adventure that tested our physical and mental limits. However, the rewards were worth every effort. From the sense of achievement to the awe-inspiring landscapes, it was an experience that pushed us to grow and appreciate the beauty of nature.
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