Famous for their picturesque and distinctive peaks, the valley between the two ranges of Langtang and the Jugal Himal is one of the world’s most beautiful. This narrow valley lies just north of Kathmandu and was designated Nepal’s first national park in 1971. Trekking here offers the opportunity to explore Tamang villages, climb small peaks and to see glaciers at a relatively comfortable low elevation. Much of the route is through semi-tropical forests where moss covers the ground and lush ferns and orchids cling to tree trunks. During the full moon in August, the sacred lake of Gosainkunda is the where thousands of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims come to bath in its icy water.
Trek Grade: This trek is a Grade 3 but relatively easy with days of walking up to 5 hours. Although you climb above 3000m, you do this gradually. One day you reach 4400m but by this stage in the trek, you should be well acclimatized.
Inspired? Have a look at other treks Royal Mountain Travel offers in the Langtang region:
Chisopani - Sundarijal (1300m) and drive back to Kathmandu
Information
What's Included?
All land transportation.
English Speaking Trekking Guide.
TIMS and Langtang National Park Entrance Fee.
Porters to carry personal luggage (carry 15kg i.e 7.5kg per pax)
Basic Tea House Accommodation in EP.
Shivapuri National Park Entrance Fee.
What's Excluded?
Travel insurance
Accommodation in Kathmandu
All meals during trek
Visa and passport fees
International flights
Tips and gratuities
Emergency Evacuation
Any other services which are not mentioned as included
Personal expenses such as drinks, postage, laundry, communication etc
Trekking: Additional information
Please note that the published itinerary can only be a statement of intent and should be used as a guide only. Each day may vary due to the walking times of the group, camping and trail cond
Please note that the published itinerary can only be a statement of intent and should be used as a guide only. Each day may vary due to the walking times of the group, camping and trail conditions. The guide in charge of your trip may have to alter the schedule if necessary and any such changes are at the discretion of Royal Mountain Travel and your guide.
The trekking day
Your day starts with a wake-up call, followed by breakfast and baggage pickup. You are then driven to the start point of your trek. While trekking, your day starts with breakfast at the tea house where you are staying. You need to pack up your baggage before breakfast as porters usually set off early.
Normally you are on the trail by 8 am and stop for a leisurely lunch around noon, with the chance to stop along the way for short breaks. Lunchtime usually lasts a couple of hours to give you time to relax or to explore the village where you have stopped. The afternoon walk is shorter and you can expect to arrive around 4 pm to allow time for short excursions to nearby sites, monasteries, exploration of the village or for relaxing with a book or catching up on your diary. Dinner is generally around, 7 pm.
Everyone walks at different speeds and you should always go at the pace that is comfortable for you. The grade of the trek is only an approximate indication of what to expect, based on the altitude and the hours of walking per day. In general, the condition of trails is good as these are the main routes between villages.
What you carry?
Each porter carries 15kg so you should pack 7.5 kgs of baggage, sharing one porter between two persons. These things will not be available to you during the day as the porters usually leave early and do not walk with you. Your daypack should contain all that you need during the day. This should consist of warm clothes for when you stop, a water bottle, camera, sunscreen, lip salve and maybe waterproofs depending on when you’re trekking. Your guide will let you know each evening about any extra items you might need for the following day. You should take a comfortable daypack to carry just a few kilograms of things you need along the way.
Food and drink
No meals are included in your trek. These are available in tea houses, lodges and bhattis that may sometimes have quite limited menus. There are a lot of tea houses and lodges along the way while you are trekking. Meals are generally simple but filling, but you may wish to stock up on ‘trail munchies’ before leaving Kathmandu or Pokhara. Although mineral water in plastic bottles can be found along the way in many places, you should try to avoid using this. Plastic bottles are a serious problem on the trekking routes as there is no way to dispose of them. Instead, you should use water purification tablets, a water filter or ask for boiled water at the lodges. It is a good idea to bring a heat resistant, a water bottle which can double up as a hot water bottle when you go to bed at night too!
It is not recommended to drink alcohol at altitudes above 3,000m or so, where altitude sickness can start to have an effect.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in lodges and teahouses and is of a basic standard. Rooms may be twin or multi-share with basic shared toilet facilities. Hot showers are available in some places for a small charge. It is a good idea to pack wet-wipes to freshen up, especially useful when you reach high altitudes where the water can be very cold. It is not recommended to wash your hair when you are at higher altitudes and where the outside air is cold, as you run the risk of getting a chill when your wet hair takes a long time to dry.
Lodges usually have a common room where later in the day, when people start to arrive from their day’s trek there might be a stove that is lit to keep warm. Bedrooms, however, are not heated. The lodges provide clean bedding, but you may want to pack a sheet sleeping bag for peace of mind.
Transportation
The main means of transport are on foot, or in some cases by horse, with mules or donkeys sometimes carrying baggage. On most trekking routes, your baggage will be carried by the porters. You should ensure that anything you might need during the day is in your day pack as you will not see the baggage that is being carried again until the end of each day.
Trekking staff
You will be provided with government licensed, experienced trek guided assisted by the porters who transport your baggage with one porter for every two trekkers. The guide is in overall charge of the trek and looks after you. This is the person you should go to with any problems, concerns or questions. Our guides are highly trained in all aspects of trekking, conservation, high altitude medicine, first-aid and emergency procedures. They are professionals selected for their knowledge and passion for Nepal and its peoples. However, you should remember that they are local guides and their English may sometimes be quite basic and limited to trek related topics. Usually, porters will have a more basic understanding of English. Please try to speak slowly and clearly to make communication easier.
Trek grading and preparation
It is impossible to have a ‘foolproof’ grading system as everyone has different expectations and perceptions of their own fitness level. Remember that no trek in the Himalaya is a stroll as all involve going up and down, often at altitude. Altitude affects everyone differently, and even if it has not affected you much before, each time can be quite different in how it affects you.
Regardless of age or fitness, preparation, before you arrive, is a good idea. Aerobic activity, swimming, cycling or brisk walking is recommended or, at the very least, walking up and down stairs in your trekking boots to be sure that they fit well and are comfortable. Try to use hiking boots that you have already broken in to avoid blisters. Remember that the trek should be fun and you should go at your own pace.
Money
It is best to bring cash in major currencies such as the US, Canadian or Australian dollars, Euros, or Pounds. Ensure you have a mixture of large and small denominations. Everyone’s spending is different, but as a guide, we suggest about USD 8 – 10 per meal in Kathmandu and Pokhara and USD 30 – 35 per day whilst trekking. If you drink or smoke you need to allow a bit more.
You should exchange enough money into Nepalese Rupees to last the entire time of your trek before leaving Kathmandu. You can find the money exchange counters near your hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara but there are no exchange facilities in villages along the way.
Communication: mobile phones and internet
Please note, as you will be often trekking through valleys and will not always be close to mobile towers, mobile phone reception can be very patchy. NCELL, the local mobile company has quite good coverage, but sometimes the signal can be very weak. Usually, lodges have powerpoint’s to recharge your mobile, although this sometimes can be at an extra charge.
Tipping
Tipping is a personal and voluntary matter and is not included in the trip price. If you wish to reward the efforts of those who have worked to make your trek the best they can, we suggest the following: USD 4 per day for groups of 8+, USD 5 per day for smaller groups which will be shared amongst the whole staff, including porters.
Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the trip price. It is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance prior to your trek. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation (including helicopter evacuation) and personal liability. We also recommend that it covers cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Be careful to check the small print of your insurance regarding altitude as some policies only provide cover up to 2000m.
Health
There are no specific health requirements for entry into Nepal. Your health condition must be sound as you will be climbing to above 4000m. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date information regarding vaccinations, high altitude medication and medications for any reasonably foreseeable illnesses whilst traveling in Nepal. Be aware that some drugs, including anti-malarial, have side effects at altitude. Please discuss this carefully with your doctor.
Please be aware that you will be in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time during this trip. We strongly recommend that you carry a personal First Aid kit as well as sufficient quantities of any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses)
Altitude
AMS (acute mountain sickness) is a serious issue. It is the result of the failure of the body to adapt to high altitude and can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. It usually occurs above 1,800 meters and the likelihood of being affected increases as you ascend. The way to reduce the effects of altitude is to ascend slowly, 300 meters per day above 3,000 meters until you have acclimatized. Poor acclimatization can result in headaches, nausea, sleeplessness, difficulty breathing and swelling of fingers and glands. The only cure for AMS is to descend to a lower altitude and your guide’s decision on this matter is final. There is a possibility of AMS in any trek that passes through altitudes above 4000 meters.
Although our routes are carefully planned to allow proper acclimatization you may feel some effects of altitude for the first few days or at higher altitudes. Breathlessness, lethargy and mild headaches are not uncommon and generally decrease as your body adjusts. Maintaining adequate fluid intake is essential. Please advise your guide if you feel more severe symptoms and do not medicate yourself without discussing it with them first.
Climate
Variation of climate is directly proportional to the altitude. For this trekking, trekking routes are often passed through a range of altitudes from 850m upwards. Between, about 2700m and 3000m a cool temperate climate prevails, and you should expect a cool summer and very cold temperatures in the winter. Above 3000m, even if the daytime is sunny and quite warm, the temperature will drop sharply as soon as the sun goes down.
The weather in the mountains is notoriously changeable, so always be prepared for a change in conditions and note that if severe or dangerous weather conditions occur your guide’s decision on any course of action is final.
Permits
Trekking permits are required for almost all treks and will be obtained by Royal Mountain Travel. The Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) is essential for the record of Nepal Tourism Board keeping in mind about probable hazards to occur. You need to provide your full name, nationality, home address, passport number, sex, date of birth and 2 photographs for each permit. Royal Mountain Travel also pays any fees required for entry to national parks, conservation areas or restricted areas.
Packing for your trek
You will need to bring a comfortable medium sized daypack to carry the things you will need during the day. This should have a waist strap or (better) a padded waist belt.
Rain jacket or poncho
Water bottle – minimum 1 liter, aluminium or Nalgene polypropylene are best.
Snacks for along the way: nuts, trail mix, chocolate.
Gloves/hat
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Camera
Small first aid kit: band-aid, aspirin.
You should limit your baggage to about 7kg. You will find the following items useful.
Walking boots – lightweight, waterproof and well worn in.
Socks: thick wool/blend and thin cotton to be worn in combination – ensure boots fit such combinations.
Running shoes or sandals for morning/evening
Lightweight wool sweater/fleece sweater (thin layers are more effective than one thick pullover)
Fleece jacket
T-shirts – 4 or 5
Shirt – long-sleeved
Pants – lightweight long trousers (jeans are unsuitable)
Hats – with ear flaps or balaclava for nights (winter)
Gloves – wool or fleece (winter)
Scarf
Underwear (thermal underwear for winter)
Sarong – a multitude of uses
Bag liners – large, thick garbage bags to the line and water/dust proof your duffle bag.
Royal Mountain Travel is a Nepal-based sustainable tourism operator. We specialize in curating once-in-a-lifetime experiences to showcase indigenous and community based tourism projects. We work with travel agents and tourism companies to help plan travel experiences that highlight authentic, local lifestyles throughout some of the most unique landscapes on earth.
You have driven the scenic route up to Syabru Besi, an interesting village on the banks of the Bhote Kosi River. You arrive in the late afternoon and have time to explore the village.
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Day 2
Syabru Besi – Lama Hotel (2380m, 5 hrs)
You start the trek by crossing a suspension bridge and the hike through a forest where you might see langur monkeys. From Doman (1680m) the trail climbs steeply over a rocky ridge to Paira Lodge (1810m), then climbing more gently to Bamboo Lodge (1960m). You continuing steeply upwards following the trail to Rimche (2400m) and Lama Hotel.
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Day 3
Lama Hotel – Langtang Village (3500m, 5 hrs)
Continuing upwards through a forest of hemlock, oaks, maples and rhododendron, you catch catching glimpses of Langtang Lirung. You reach Langtang Village that was built in a Tibetan style with stone walled fields and herds of yak.
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Day 4
Langtang Village – Kyanjing Gompa (3700m, 3 hrs)
The trail climbs gently up through the Langtang Valley to Sindum and to Yamphu. After crossing the Laja Khola, you climb the glacial moraine to a viewpoint from where Kyanjin Gompa and the dramatic icefall flowing from Langtang Lirung and Kinshung are visible. The trail then descends to Kyanjin Gompa.
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Day 5
Kyanjing Gompa – Lama Hotel (2380m, 7 hrs)
Though it is quite a long day, it is quite easy as you are retracing your steps, trekking back down to Lama Hotel.
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Day 6
Lama Hotel - Sybru Village (2087m, 5hrs)
From Lama Hotel the trail descends through Rimche past Bamboo Lodge and Paira Lodge. You then climb steeply through the forest, crossing the river to Syabru village.
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Day 7
Sybru Village - Sing Gompa (3254m, 5hrs)
Passing Schools and gompas the trail climbs steeply to Dursagang then continues through a forest of hemlock and oak to the top of a ridge at Foprang Danda. Although poorly cared for, Sing Gompa is the main attraction of Chandan Bari and houses a statue of Green Tara. The caretaker will unlock the chapel for a small fee.
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Day 8
Sing Gompa - Lauirbina Yak (3920m, 3hrs)
From Sing Gompa, the trail climbs gradually up to Chalang Pati from where you have views of Langtang Lirung, the mountains edging Tibet, and a majestic forest of rhododendron and pine.
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Day 9
Lauirbina Yak - Gosaikund (4400m, 3hrs)
The route ascends up to a small temple with a statue of Sakyamuni and after climbing a bit further, you can get good views of Saraswati Kunda. You are high above the Trisuli Valley and after crossing another spur you are rewarded with excellent views of Bhairav Kunda. It is a gentle climb from here to reach Gosaikund. The black rock in the centre of Gosainkunda Lake is said to be the head of Shiva who is credited with the creation of the lake.
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Day 10
Gosaikund - Gopte (3440m, 5hrs)
After trekking around to the northern side of Gosaikunda Lake, cross a moraine and pass three more small lakes to reach Laurebina La (4610m). The trail descends to a National Park Post at Bhera Goth (4240m) and to Phedi (3740m). From here the route undulates through scrub bamboo to Dupichaur (3630m) and descends finally to Ghopte.
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Day 11
Gopte - Kutumsang (2470m, 5hrs)
Descending from Ghopte there are a number of ups and downs to cross moraines before a final ascent to Tharepati. From Tharepati the trail passes through forests to Magen Goth (3420m) and to Penghu then descends through fir and rhododendron forest offering views of beautiful and glittering peaks on the way to Khutumsang (2450m).
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Day 12
Kutumsang - Chisopani (2194m,5hrs )
Finally, the trail descends to the delightful hill village of Gul Bhayang. You continue along the forested ridge to Thodang Betini (2260m) and then down to Chipling (2170m). Making a very steep descent to Pati Bhanjyang (1860m), this is a Brahman and Chhetri village. You continue on to Chisopani n time to admire the sun setting on its great mountain views.
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Day 13
Chisopani - Sundarijal (1300m) and drive back to Kathmandu
Hiking up through a forest of oak and rhododendron, you reach Borlang Bhanjyang (2440m). Then it is downhill to Mulkharka (1800m) from where you will have a spectacular view of the Kathmandu Valley before you descend through the forest to Sundarijal and the outskirts of Kathmandu from where you will be driven back to your hotel.
