Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek via Sundarijal Chisapani
Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek via Sundarijal Chisapani
The Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek via Sundarijal is a spectacular journey that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Located in the Langtang region of Nepal, this trek takes you through lush forests, quaint villages, and high-altitude lakes, culminating at the sacred Gosainkunda Lake.
Starting from Sundarijal, a small village located just outside Kathmandu, the trek ascends through dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees, gradually gaining elevation as you make your way towards the Langtang Valley. The initial section is a beautiful walk along rivers, waterfalls, and mountain views, providing a warm-up for the more challenging parts of the trek. After passing through small villages like Chisapani and Tarkeyghyang, you will eventually reach Langtang Village, where you can catch glimpses of the majestic Langtang Lirung Peak.
Continuing on the trail, you enter the Langtang National Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity, including species like red pandas and snow leopards. As you climb higher, the vegetation becomes sparse, and the trail leads you to the high-altitude destination of Gosainkunda Lake. Situated at 4,380 meters, this alpine lake is not only a striking sight but is also revered by Hindus as a sacred site. Pilgrims from all over Nepal come here during the full moon festival in August to take a holy dip in its crystal-clear waters.
The trek is physically demanding due to the altitude, but it rewards trekkers with some of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas. You’ll enjoy stunning views of peaks like Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Lirung, as well as serene landscapes and charming mountain villages.
The return journey typically follows the same route back to Sundarijal, where the trek concludes. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to interact with friendly locals, experience their hospitality, and learn about the unique Tamang and Sherpa cultures.
In summary, the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek via Sundarijal is a diverse and enriching trek that offers spectacular views, cultural experiences, and a sense of tranquility that only the Himalayas can provide.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu – Transfer to Hotel.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative who will transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, take the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. You can also explore the vibrant streets of Thamel or visit nearby temples and markets.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, then Trek to Chisapani (2,300m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today, you’ll begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, located at the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. From Sundarijal, the trek begins with a steady uphill climb through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. The trail continues through small villages, offering views of the surrounding mountains. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach Chisapani, a small village where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3 : Trek from Chisapani to Kutumsang (2,470m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast, you’ll continue your trek, passing through more forested areas and small settlements. The trail gradually ascends and offers stunning views of the Langtang Himal and nearby peaks. By the end of the day, you will reach Kutumsang, a scenic village with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 4 : Trek from Kutumsang to Ghopte (3,440m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek today takes you through dense forests and a few small villages as you make your way to Ghopte, situated at an elevation of 3,440 meters. The trail is a bit more challenging, with steep sections and higher altitudes. Upon reaching Ghopte, enjoy the serene beauty of the area, surrounded by mountains and forests.
Day 5 : Trek from Ghopte to Gosainkunda (4,380m) via Laurebina Pass (4,681m) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
This is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. The day begins with a steep ascent to Laurebina Pass (4,681m), where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Manaslu and Langtang Lirung. After crossing the pass, the trail descends toward the sacred Gosainkunda Lake. Arriving at the lake, enjoy the stunning alpine beauty and serene atmosphere. Gosainkunda is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Day 6 : Trek from Gosainkunda to Thulo Syafru (2,120m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
After a morning spent soaking in the beauty of Gosainkunda, you begin your descent to Thulo Syafru, a village situated at a lower elevation. The trail drops steeply from the lake, passing through forests and rocky paths, and eventually reaches the village where you’ll spend the night.
Day 7 : Trek from Thulo Syafru to Lama Hotel (2,470m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Thulo Syafru, the trail follows a descending path through forests, alongside streams, and through small villages. Lama Hotel is located in a beautiful, tranquil setting, perfect for resting and rejuvenating after a long day of trekking.
Day 8 : Trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,430m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek leads you to Langtang Village, a picturesque settlement located in the Langtang Valley. The trail ascends steadily, passing through beautiful forests and small villages along the way. Langtang Village offers spectacular views of the Langtang Lirung peak and is a great place to explore the local Tamang culture.
Day 9 : Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3,800m) – Duration: 3-4 hours.
A short but scenic trek today will take you to Kyanjin Gompa, a Buddhist monastery situated at 3,800 meters. Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of Langtang Lirung and other peaks. Kyanjin Gompa is a spiritual center, and the area offers fantastic opportunities to explore the monastery and surrounding glaciers.
Day 10 : Rest Day in Kyanjin – Optional Climb to Kyanjin Ri (4,850m) – Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today is a rest day, but for those who want to push themselves, there’s an option to hike up to Kyanjin Ri (4,850m). This is a stunning viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Langtang Range, including peaks like Langtang Lirung and Ganjala Pass. After enjoying the views, return to Kyanjin for the night.
Day 11 : Trek from Kyanjin to Lama Hotel (2,470m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast, begin your descent back to Lama Hotel, retracing your steps down through Langtang Village. The trail is primarily downhill, passing through lush forests and small settlements.
Day 12 : Trek from Lama Hotel to Syabru Besi (1,460m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Continue your descent from Lama Hotel to Syabru Besi, a lively village that marks the end of your trekking route. Along the way, pass through scenic landscapes and enjoy the views as you approach the lower altitude.
Day 13 : Drive from Syabru Besi to Kathmandu – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today, take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The journey will take around 7-8 hours, offering views of the hills and the Trishuli River along the way. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can spend the evening relaxing or exploring the city.
Day 14 : International Departure.
On the final day of your trip, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Safe travels and farewell to 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 Sundari Jal transportation by Private car
- Syafru Besi to Kathmandu transportation by Local Bus
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) 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
Good to Know Before the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek
Altitude & Acclimatization:
The trek reaches altitudes over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), so acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. It’s recommended to take it slow, hydrate well, and give your body time to adjust.
Weather & Temperature:
The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so be prepared for varying conditions. Temperatures at higher altitudes can drop below freezing, especially at night. Layered clothing is essential for warmth and comfort.
Local Culture:
The trek passes through villages with a mix of Tibetan and Sherpa cultures. Respect local customs and traditions. It’s polite to greet villagers with a "Namaste" and be mindful of their way of life.
Trekking Permits:
You will need the Langtang National Park Permit and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. Make sure to carry them with you throughout the trek. These can be obtained in Kathmandu.
Connectivity:
Mobile network coverage is available in most villages up to a certain point, but it can be spotty as you gain altitude. Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses but may be slow and expensive. It’s best to disconnect and fully enjoy the trek!
Water Safety:
You’ll pass several freshwater streams and rivers, but it’s important to treat or purify your drinking water. Carry water purification tablets or a water filter to stay safe and hydrated.
Food & Snacks:
Food along the trek is basic but nutritious, with options like dal bhat (lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and noodles. It’s recommended to bring energy-boosting snacks like trail mix, chocolate, and granola bars for the journey.
Physical Fitness:
The trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to steep ascents, high altitudes, and long walking hours. Regular cardio exercises and trekking preparation before the trip will help make the experience more enjoyable.
Cash & Currency:
Cash is king on the trail, as ATMs are only available in Kathmandu or at the starting point of the trek (Sundarijal). Carry sufficient Nepali rupees for food, lodging, and other expenses on the trail.
Safety Tips:
- Always follow your guide’s instructions regarding altitude and pacing.
- Be mindful of weather conditions, especially in higher altitudes where storms can happen unexpectedly.
- Don’t push your limits—if you're feeling unwell, rest, or descend to a lower altitude.
- Keep a well-stocked first aid kit, including altitude sickness medication and personal medications.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to fully enjoy the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek and experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the area safely.
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FAQS
What is the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
The Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek is a scenic trekking route in Nepal that combines the beauty of the Langtang Valley and the sacred Gosainkunda Lake, passing through lush forests, traditional villages, and stunning Himalayan landscapes.
How long does the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek take?
The trek typically takes 10-14 days, depending on the pace and itinerary, with the route covering around 70-100 kilometers.
What is the best time to do the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear, and the trails are dry, offering the best views of the mountains and landscapes.
How difficult is the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the altitude and the mixed terrain, including steep ascents and descents. Prior trekking experience and physical fitness are recommended.
What is the altitude of Gosainkunda Lake?
Gosainkunda Lake sits at an altitude of around 4,380 meters (14,370 feet), making acclimatization important to prevent altitude sickness.
Do I need a guide and porter for the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and to help carry your gear, especially in remote areas.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a risk due to the trek's high altitude. It's important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and ascend gradually to avoid altitude-related issues.
What permits do I need for the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
You will need two permits for the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek:
- Langtang National Park Entry Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Permit
Both can be obtained in Kathmandu or Dhunche.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation is available in teahouses or lodges along the route, offering basic rooms and meals. Expect shared rooms with common bathrooms in most places, though more facilities are available in larger towns.
What should I pack for the Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
Essential items to pack include:
- Warm clothing for cold temperatures
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking boots and gaiters
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Water purification tablets
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- First-aid kit and medications (including altitude sickness medication)
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Victoria Rowland
Australia
October 23, 2024
A Journey Beyond Expectations
I embarked on the Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, and it exceeded all my expectations. The professionalism of the staff was evident from the start. Our guide was not only skilled but also friendly, making the trek enjoyable and educational. The landscapes were jaw-dropping, with diverse terrain and charming villages. Every day brought new wonders, and the support from the Sherpa team made all the difference. I can’t wait to return for another adventure!
Urszula Morańda
United Kingdom
October 23, 2024
Professionalism at Its Best
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking demonstrated professionalism at every stage of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. From the pre-trek briefing to the final goodbye, the team's organization was impressive. Our guides were skilled and experienced, ensuring our safety while encouraging us to embrace the adventure. The trek was well-structured, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the stunning landscapes and local culture. I felt well taken care of and was able to focus on enjoying the journey. This trek has sparked a passion for trekking, and I’m eager to plan my next adventure.
Fernando Duarte
Norway
October 22, 2024
Perfectly Organized Adventure
The Annapurna Circuit Trek organized by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking exceeded my expectations. Every detail was meticulously planned, from our arrival to the final descent. The guides were professional, friendly, and always available to assist with any needs. They provided thorough briefings at each stop, ensuring we knew what to expect. The stunning landscapes and diverse terrain made for an exhilarating experience. Plus, the opportunity to engage with local communities added a rich cultural layer to our journey. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a well-structured trekking experience.
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