Trip Facts
Country:
Nepal
Duration:
15 Days
Max Altitude:
Langtang
Activities:
Trekking and driving
Region:
Langtang Region
Starting Point:
Kathmandu
Ending Point:
Kathmandu
Grade:
moderate to strenuous
Group Size:
2 to 12 trekkers
Accomodation:
Teahouses, Hotel in Kathmandu
Best Season:
Mar-May & Sep-Nov
Notice
This trek joins two highlights into one trip: the Langtang Valley and the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m). It then crosses Laurebina La pass (4,610 m) into the Helambu region.
The high point of the route is Laurebina La (4,610 m). The optional Tserko Ri hike from Kyanjin Gompa reaches 4,984 m, the highest point you can stand on.
The whole trek lies inside Langtang National Park, north of Kathmandu. So a licensed guide and permits are required. Spade Himalaya arranges your guide, the park permit, and the TIMS card.
Overview of Langtang Gosaikunda Trek 15-Days
Quick answer: The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a 15-day, moderate-to-strenuous trek combining the Langtang Valley, the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m), and Laurebina La pass (4,610 m). It needs no flight from Kathmandu, plus a park permit, a TIMS card, and a guide (Nepal Tourism Board, retrieved 2026-06-26).
The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a 15-day journey through the Langtang region, north of Kathmandu. It blends three things in one trip: a high mountain valley, a sacred lake, and a quiet pass crossing. It runs inside Langtang National Park, Nepal’s first Himalayan national park, set up in 1976. So you get big peaks, deep forest, and warm Tamang culture, close to the capital.
The trek starts with a drive to Syabrubesi (1,460 m). Then you climb the Langtang Valley through forest to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m). Here you find an old monastery and a famous yak-cheese factory. From the village, you can hike to Tserko Ri (4,984 m) or Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) for a huge view of Langtang Lirung (7,234 m) and the range.
After the valley, you trek south to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m). This turquoise lake is holy to both Hindus and Buddhists, and pilgrims come here in large numbers each year. The next day, you cross Laurebina La pass (4,610 m), the highest point on the route. From the pass, you see Manaslu and Ganesh Himal across the valleys. Then you descend into the green Helambu region and finish near Sundarijal, on the edge of Kathmandu.
This trek is graded moderate to strenuous. The days are long, you cross a high pass, and you spend several nights above 3,000 m. So you need a good level of fitness. But there is no technical climbing. With a slow pace and an acclimatization day at Kyanjin Gompa, it is within reach of most fit trekkers.
Spade Himalaya runs this trek with licensed Nepali guides. So your guide sets a safe pace, watches the weather, and checks your health each day. Want a shorter trip in the same area? See the Langtang Valley Trek, which visits Kyanjin Gompa and Tserko Ri without the Gosaikunda crossing. For the easiest trek in the region, try the Helambu Trek. For other regions, try the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, or the remote Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Still weighing it up? Our Gosaikunda Lake Trek cost guide breaks down every expense. The guide to Gosaikunda Trek difficulty and best time shows how hard it is and when to go. Not sure which route suits you? Then read Langtang Valley vs Gosaikunda. For everything in one place, see our Langtang region trekking guide.
Trips Highlights
- Climb the Langtang Valley to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) and its yak-cheese factory
- Hike Tserko Ri (4,984 m) or Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) for a 360-degree mountain view
- See Langtang Lirung (7,234 m) and the Langtang range up close
- Reach the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m), holy to Hindus and Buddhists
- Cross Laurebina La pass (4,610 m), the high point of the trek
- Descend into the quiet Helambu region, far from the crowds
- Walk through Langtang National Park, Nepal's first Himalayan national park
- Meet warm Tamang and Sherpa villagers and visit old monasteries
- Spot wildlife like red panda, langur monkeys, and Himalayan tahr
- Finish near Sundarijal, on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu (1,400 m) → drive to Syabrubesi (1,460 m) → Lama Hotel (2,460 m) → Langtang Village (3,450 m) → Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) → Tserko Ri (4,984 m) or Kyanjin Ri → back to Lama Hotel → Thulo Syabru (2,250 m) → Sing Gompa (3,330 m) → Gosaikunda (4,380 m) → Laurebina La pass (4,610 m), Ghopte (3,430 m) → Kutumsang (2,470 m) → Chisapani (2,165 m) → Sundarijal (1,460 m), drive to Kathmandu.
In short, you climb the Langtang Valley to Kyanjin Gompa, then return and head south to Gosaikunda Lake. After that, you cross Laurebina La pass into Helambu and walk out through Kutumsang and Chisapani to Sundarijal, near Kathmandu.
Trips Itinerary
Your trip begins in Kathmandu. A Spade Himalaya guide meets you at the airport. Then a private car takes you to your hotel in Thamel. So you can rest after your flight. Later, you can explore the lively lanes nearby, or visit the Garden of Dreams. In the evening, you meet your guide for a full briefing on the trek. They check your gear and explain the route and the safety plan. So bring your passport, photos, and a copy of your insurance.
- Duration: 30 min Drive
- Max Altitude: 1,400 m
- Accommodation: Shared 3 Star Hotel
Today is a long, scenic drive north from Kathmandu. The road climbs through green hills and terraced farms. It follows the Trishuli River gorge for much of the way. On a clear day, you can see Ganesh Himal and the Langtang range ahead. You also pass rural villages and roadside markets. The road is bumpy in places, so the drive takes its time. By late afternoon, you reach Syabrubesi, the gateway to Langtang. So you settle into your lodge and rest for the trek ahead.
- Duration: 7 to 8 hrs Drive
- Max Altitude: 1,460 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
The trek begins today. First, you cross the Bhote Koshi River on a suspension bridge. Then you climb beside the Langtang River through thick forest. The trail passes through oak, bamboo, and rhododendron trees. You may spot langur monkeys and colourful birds along the way. You also pass small teahouses and a Buddhist shrine, Guru Rinpoche Gompa. The valley is quiet and green, with the river rushing below. After a steady climb, you reach Lama Hotel. So you spend a calm night in the forest.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 2,460 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today the trail keeps climbing through high mountain scenery. As you rise, the forest opens up. Soon, Langtang Lirung towers ahead, the highest peak in the region. You walk past riverside meadows, prayer flags, and stone chortens. The path leads to Langtang Village, a traditional Tamang settlement. Here you see stone houses, fields of potatoes and barley, and wide mountain views. The village was rebuilt after the 2015 earthquake, so your visit helps the local community. Spend the night here, surrounded by peaks.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 3,450 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today is a shorter day, but the views grow. The trail climbs gently past mani walls and large chortens. You may stop at the yak-cheese factory to taste fresh cheese. You pass the small settlements of Mundu and Sindum on the way. Soon, you reach Kyanjin Gompa, the spiritual heart of the valley. Here you find an old monastery below towering peaks. So the afternoon is free to visit the gompa and see the glaciers and Langtang Lirung. Rest well, because tomorrow is the high hike.
- Duration: 3 to 4 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 3,870 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today is a rest and exploration day. It also helps your body adjust to the height. The top option is the steep climb to Tserko Ri (4,984 m), about 2 to 3 hours each way. From the top, you get a full view of the Langtang range and Dorje Lakpa. A gentler choice is Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m), which still has superb views. The climb is hard, but the reward is worth it. Then you return to Kyanjin Gompa. So you can rest, or explore the village, before the descent.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 4,984 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Now you begin to retrace your steps down the valley. The trail follows the Langtang River back through the forest. Going downhill is easier on the lungs, but the day is long. So take it steady, and use trekking poles. On the way, the valley shows new views in the other direction. You pass the villages again and drop back into the woods. By evening, you reach Lama Hotel. So you enjoy the peaceful forest one more time.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hrs
- Max Altitude: 3,870 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today you leave the Langtang Valley and head toward Gosaikunda. The trail runs through quiet pine forest and small villages. It has a mix of ups and downs along the way. In the distance, you can see Ganesh Himal and the Langtang range. Then you reach Thulo Syabru, a traditional Tamang village. It sits on a ridge with fine valley views. So you can meet the friendly Tamang people and learn about their culture. Spend the night here.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 2,460 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today the trail climbs steadily through pine and rhododendron forest. As you rise, the views grow more dramatic. The Langtang range comes closer with every hour. You reach Sing Gompa, also called Chandanbari. This small settlement is known for its monastery and another yak-cheese factory. So you can visit both before the evening. The air is cooler and thinner here. Rest well, because tomorrow you reach the sacred lake.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 3,330 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today you reach the sacred Gosaikunda Lake. The trail climbs through forest, then opens to high, rocky country. You pass Laurebina, with sweeping views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. As you climb, the air grows thin, so walk slowly. Then the turquoise lake comes into view, ringed by tall peaks. Gosaikunda is holy to both Hindus and Buddhists. By legend, Lord Shiva created the lake. So it is a calm, special place. Rest by the water and enjoy the still, clear air.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 4,380 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
This is the hardest and most rewarding day. First, you climb steeply from the lake to Laurebina La pass at 4,610 m. This is the highest point of the trek. From the top, the views are astonishing, with peaks all around. After a moment at the pass, you begin the long descent. The trail drops through rocky terrain and high meadows. Then it leads to Ghopte, a quiet stop in the mountains. So you rest here after a big, memorable day.
- Duration: 7 to 8 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 4,610 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today you enter the green Helambu region. First, you climb to Tharepati, with views of Gangchempo and Dorje Lakpa. From here, a side trail leads to the Helambu Circuit, if you have more time. Then the trail drops through rhododendron forest and small villages. The path gets steeper near Mangengoth. Just before the village, you cross Kyuola Bhanjyang. So you reach Kutumsang, known for its farms and fine views, for the night.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 3,690 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today the trail rolls through green hills and pretty villages. You walk via Chipling, on dusty ridge roads with wide views. Then you pass Pati Bhanjyang, a small village on the route. From there, Chisapani is only about 30 minutes away. At Chisapani, you get broad views of the nearby valleys and peaks. So it is a fine spot for your last night on the trail. Enjoy the calm before the return to the city.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 2,470 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today is the final walk. The trail descends through the forests of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. You pass Mulkharka and Borlang Bhanjyang on the way down. Then you reach Sundarijal, on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. From there, a vehicle drives you back to Kathmandu. So you arrive in the city by afternoon. If you have time, you can visit Thamel or a temple like Pashupatinath. So you celebrate the end of a long, rich trek.
- Duration: 4 to 5 hrs walking & driving
- Max Altitude: 1,460 m
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
This is the last day of your trip. After breakfast, a Spade Himalaya guide drives you to the airport. So you fly home with the memories of Langtang and Gosaikunda. You leave with photos of high peaks, a sacred lake, and warm villages.
- Meals: Breakfast Included
Trips Include
- All airport transfers in a private vehicle
- 2 nights' hotel in Kathmandu (3-star, twin share) with breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Syabrubesi by local bus (trek start).
- Private car or van from Sundarijal back to Kathmandu (trek end).
- All teahouse and lodge accommodation during the trek.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek, plus a farewell dinner.
- Safe drinking water using a filter or purification tablets.
- Langtang National Park entry permit and TIMS card.
- A licensed, first-aid trained, English-speaking Spade Himalaya guide (2 guides for groups over 12).
- Porter support, one porter per two trekkers (pay, insurance, meals, lodging, equipment).
- First-aid kit for daily health checks.
- Rescue-operation assistance for serious illness (funded by your travel insurance).
Trips Exclude
- International airfare and airport departure tax.
- Nepal entry visa (US30 for 15 Days, US50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days).
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu.
- Kathmandu sightseeing, private car, guide, and monument entry fees (about US$26).
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory; must cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation).
- All drinks, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging on the trail.
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver.
- Extra nights in Kathmandu from early arrival, late departure, or itinerary changes.
- Personal trekking gear and any personal expenses.
- Anything not listed under Cost Includes.
Trips Altitude
Trips Gallery
Packing List
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag, rated to about minus 10°C
- Sleeping bag liner
- Puffy down jacket
- Duffel bag
- Daypack, 30 to 40 litres, with a rain cover
Upper Body
- Warm hat or beanie that covers the ears
- Neck gaiter, buff, or scarf
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunscreen (SPF 50) and lip balm
- Moisture-wicking base-layer tops
- Fleece jacket or wool pullover
- Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal base-layer trousers
- Comfortable trekking trousers
- Light trousers for the teahouses
- Waterproof, windproof shell trousers
Hands
- Wool or technical liner gloves
- Warm outer gloves for the pass and the high hike
Feet
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support (well broken in)
- 4 to 5 pairs of warm wool socks and sock liners
- Light shoes or sandals for the evenings
- Micro spikes if there is snow on the pass or Tserko Ri
Undergarments
- Quick-drying technical underwear
- Sports bras (women)
- Thermal underwear set for cold nights
First Aid Kits
(Your guide carries a kit, medication, and a pulse oximeter, but a personal kit is strongly recommended.)
- Assorted adhesive and blister bandages
- Antiseptic ointment and pain relief (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
- Altitude medication such as acetazolamide (Diamox), only if advised by your doctor
- Anti-itch ointment
- Water-purification tablets
Others
- Passport, passport photos, and a copy of your insurance
- Reusable water bottle and a water filter or purifier
- Toiletry kit, quick-dry towel, toilet paper, hand sanitiser
- High-energy snacks (bars, nuts, dried fruit)
- Waterproof or dry bags for documents and electronics
Optional
- Trekking poles (your own, if you prefer them; otherwise provided)
- Power bank and spare batteries (power is scarce up high)
- Camera with memory cards, charger, and spare batteries
- Local SIM card for the lower trail
- Gaiters for dust, and a book or cards for the evenings
Good to Know
This trek packs three experiences into one. You get the Langtang Valley, the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, and a high pass into Helambu. So you see big peaks, a holy lake, and quiet villages in a single trip. It is also close to Kathmandu, with no flight needed. Best of all, your visit supports a region that has rebuilt with great spirit since the 2015 earthquake.
Spring and autumn are the prime seasons. In spring, the forests bloom red and pink, and you may spot red panda or musk deer. In autumn, the air is clear after the rains, so the mountain views are at their best. Winter is harsh up high, with snow and a risk of a blocked pass. The summer monsoon brings rain and leeches, so most trekkers avoid it.
This trek is moderate to strenuous, and it is long. So train before you come. Build your stamina with regular cardio, like walking, jogging, or cycling. Also strengthen your legs for the steep climbs. A few practice hikes with a daypack help a lot. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the high days and the pass.
The plan climbs slowly and adds a rest day at Kyanjin Gompa. So your body has time to adjust before the pass. Drink 3 to 4 litres of water a day, and walk at an easy pace. Skip alcohol up high, and eat well for energy. Tell your guide early if you feel a headache or nausea. In rare, severe cases, altitude sickness can be dangerous, so your guide watches closely and will descend with you if needed.
The trek runs through Langtang National Park, so foreigners must trek with a licensed guide. You need the park permit and a TIMS card, plus a small Shivapuri park fee for the Helambu exit. Spade Himalaya is a registered agency, so the guide and permits are all handled for you. You only need your passport, photos, and insurance copy.
You sleep in family-run teahouses. Lower down, some have private bathrooms. Higher up, the rooms are basic and warmed by a stove in the dining hall. The food is fresh and filling, with dal bhat, momo, thukpa, and Western dishes at bigger lodges. For water, refill and purify rather than buy bottles. This saves money and cuts plastic waste in the park.
The trail runs on cash, and there are no ATMs. So carry enough Nepalese rupees from Kathmandu. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging all cost a small fee that rises with altitude. There is no flight on this trek. You drive in to Syabrubesi and walk out to Sundarijal, near Kathmandu. So it is simple and affordable to reach.
Trips Reviews
One of the Most Rewarding Treks I Have Ever Done in Nepal
Perfect Mix of Adventure, Nature, and Local Culture
An Incredible Journey Through Valleys, Lakes, and High Passes
Trips FAQs
Trek Difficulty & Altitude
It is graded moderate to strenuous. The Langtang Gosaikunda trek difficulty comes from the length, the high pass, and the many nights above 3,000 m. You walk 5 to 8 hours a day on clear but sometimes steep trails. The high point is Laurebina La pass at 4,610 m. There is no technical climbing. So fit trekkers who train first and pace themselves can complete it well.
The highest point on the route is Laurebina La pass at 4,610 m, crossed on Day 11. Gosaikunda Lake sits at 4,380 m. The optional Tserko Ri hike from Kyanjin Gompa reaches 4,984 m, the highest point you can stand on. So the plan adds an acclimatization day at Kyanjin Gompa and climbs slowly to keep you safe.
It is a real risk, since you cross 4,610 m and sleep many nights above 3,000 m. So the plan climbs slowly and adds an acclimatization day at Kyanjin Gompa. Drink 3 to 4 litres of water a day, walk slowly, and skip alcohol up high. Your guide carries an oximeter and checks you daily. Tell them early if you feel unwell. Going down is the best cure.
Trek Highlights & Views
Gosaikunda is a sacred alpine lake at 4,380 m. It is holy to both Hindus and Buddhists. By legend, Lord Shiva created the lake. Each year, many pilgrims visit, especially during the Janai Purnima festival in summer. So the lake is both a natural and a spiritual highlight of the trek.
Permits, Guide & Insurance
Yes. The trek runs through Langtang National Park, so foreigners must trek with a licensed guide. You also need two permits: the Langtang National Park entry permit and a TIMS card. The Helambu exit also passes through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which has its own small fee. Spade Himalaya arranges the guide and all the permits.
The Langtang National Park permit is about NPR 3,000 (around US$25) for foreign trekkers. The TIMS card is about NPR 2,000 (around US$15). So the main permits total roughly US$40 per person, plus a small Shivapuri park fee at the end. Spade Himalaya includes these in the trip cost and handles the paperwork.
Yes, it is a must. Your policy has to cover high-altitude trekking and a helicopter rescue. Many normal policies do not, so check the wording first. Arrange it at home before you fly. Then leave a copy with Spade Himalaya at the briefing, so the team can act fast in an emergency.
Best Time to Trek
Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) are best. In spring, the rhododendron forests bloom and the air is mild. In autumn, the skies are clear and the views are sharp. Winter brings heavy snow up high, and the pass can be blocked, so it is risky. The summer monsoon brings rain, leeches, and cloud, so most people skip it.
Accommodation & Facilities
You sleep in simple teahouses, usually in twin rooms with shared bathrooms. Higher up, rooms are basic and cold. The food is hearty and varied. Dal bhat (rice and lentils) is the staple, with free refills. You can also get momo, thukpa, noodles, soup, and even pizza or sandwiches at bigger lodges. Vegetarian meals are easy to find.
Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi and charging for a small fee, but both get patchy higher up. Power can be solar in remote spots, so charge when you can. There are no ATMs on the trail. So carry enough Nepalese rupees in cash from Kathmandu for snacks, drinks, charging, and tips.
