Program Content
Langtang is a narrow, high mountain valley sandwiched between the greater Himalaya to the north, and the slightly lower range of snowy peaks to the south. Langtang Lirung (7,246m/23,767ft) dominates the northern valley and Gang Chenpo (6,388m/20,952ft) and Naya Kang (5,846m/19,201ft) dominate the south. Langtang was officially designated as Nepal’s first Himalayan National Park in 1976 in an initiation to preserve Himalayan flora and fauna and Langtang’s unique culture.
The valley is inhabited by the Tamang people whose culture, language, dress and religious practices are more akin to those of the Tibetans than to the traditions of their Nepali cousins in the middle hills. Helambu’s rich Sherpa culture differs from the Sherpa culture of the Everest region, and this gives additional beauty to the Langtang region. Highly revered sacred Gosainkunda Lake is surrounded by other 108 lakes, which are the centre of attraction for Hindu followers.
Langtang National Park gives wide spectrum of vegetation types, subtropical to alpine meadows. It also inhabits various types of endangered specious of mammals and colorful birds. Snow Leopard, Red Panda and Musk Deer are amongst the most elusive mammals. Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, Yello-rumped Honeyguide, Lammergeier and various species of finches and warblers are the alluring birds of the region for hardcore ornithologists.
Breathtaking views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorjee Lakpa, Langshisha Ri, Langtang Lirung and Lirung Glacier are the major attraction for mountain lovers.
Trek highlights
- Trek in one of the most beautiful mountain valleys in Nepal
- Enjoy and capture the amazing and stunning Himalayan views
- Experience first - hand Tamang culture
- Enjoy and capture Gosainkunda, a sacred glacial lake in the Hindu religion
Schedule / Goal
Next session: 21 November to 6 December 2015
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport as per your flight schedule. One of our airport representatives will receive and transfer to your hotel where you will receive a briefing on immediate arrangements.
Day 02: Explore the best of Kathmandu
A full day sightseeing journey will enable you to explore not-to-miss cultural and historical World Heritage Sites (Kathmandu, Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath).
Trek briefing and preparations
No matter how experienced a trekker, hiker or mountaineer you are; you will always find it worthwhile to attend the briefing session to gain some pre-departure information on preferred areas, trail conditions, physical demands, tips and safety precautions, challenges that may occur during the trek, and local cultures, customs and taboos.
Day 03: Drive to Syabrubensi (1,460m/4,788ft)
A long but equally scenic drive takes 8-10 hours to reach Syabrubensi where you will stay overnight in hotel. You have many opportunities to witness picturesque landscape and mountain views.
Trek days
Day 04: Trek to Lama Hotel (2,410m/7,905ft)
The path is well defined through the Langtang Khola gorge, there are stretches where the trail switchbacks through luxuriant mixed forests. You will hear monkeys and if very lucky, you might see red panda and wild boar, 5-6 hours
Day 05: Trek to Ghoratabela (3,020m/9,906ft)
Although a short trekking day the increase in altitude is noticeable. The valley is still narrow and the feeling of being amongst the ‘big’ mountains adds to the atmosphere.2 hours from Lama Lodge
Day 06: Trek to Langtang village (3,330m/10,922ft)
The trail goes through rhododendron and berberis before steepening to climb into the upper valley, 3-4 hours to Langtang village
Day 07: Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3,730m/12,234ft)
The mountain scenery today demands that the camera is always in easy reach, 2-3 hours
Day 08: Hike to Tserko Ri and rest at Kyajin Gompa
Today you trek up Tserko Ri 4,984m/16,347ft initially climbing steeply before contouring round to the east before the final pull up to the summit 4 hours round trip. Spend the second night at Kyajin Gompa
Day 09: Descend to Bamboo lodge (2,200m/7,216ft)
Retrace your steps back to Bamboo 4-5 hours
Day 10: Ascend to Thulo Syabru, Syabru Gaon (2,210m/7,248ft)
Follow the trail across the hillside above the Langtang Khola, 4-5 hours
Day 11: Ascend to Sing Gompa, Chandanbari (3,250m/10,660ft)
Climb steeply across a vegetated hillside often interspersed with oak, pine or rhododendron forest 3-4 hours
Day 12: Ascend to Lauribina (3,900m/12,792ft)
Outstanding views today from a fine ridge walk 3-4 hours
Day 13: Ascend to Gosainkunda (4,380m/14,366ft)
Climbing over a broad open hillside then traverse round a deep rocky basin, a difficult trail in bad weather or if snow is lying 4-5 hours
Day 14: Decend to Sing Gompa
Return to Kathmandu
Day 15: Descend to Dhunche and drive to Kathmandu
The last section of the trail descends through well cared for agricultural land and forest areas. As you near the road head and civilization, be aware of opportunists, never leave you gear unattended 3-4 hours trek and an hours ride, depending on traffic back to the hotel.
Day 16: Trip concludes