Langtang, Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek - 17 Days

Kathmandu , Nepal

Langtang, Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek - 17 Days

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17d

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Langtang, Gosaikunda, Helambu Trek is one of the most diverse and easily accessible trekking routes in Nepal. Tamang people inhabit the Langtang Region Trek, whose religion, language and dresses are very similar to Tibetans. While the famous Sherpa People inhabits the Helambu Trek.

Gosaikunda Lake is another destination of this trek, which is a sacred destination in the Langtang National Park. The Lake is also a Holy Lake. It is believed to be created by Lord Shiva. Other Lakes and Gosaikunda peak surrounds this Gosaikunda lake. The challenging part lies at the 4610-meter high pass, also known as the Lauribina Pass.

The 17-day trek begins in Kathmandu with tours of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then we drive to Syabrubesi which is a Tamang village located on the banks of the Bhote Koshi River and begin our trek. We reach Kyanjin Gompa and then climb Tserko Ri the next day. From there we get tremendous views of the Langtang Lirung (7,200m/23,622ft) range.

Available options

Langtang, Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek - 17 Days

Pickup included

What's included

3 Star Category accommodation including Breakfast in Kathmandu and B/L /D during the trek

Pickups and drop offs from airport(s) and hotel(s)

All necessary paper work(s) and permit(s)

A comprehensive medical kit

Breakfast

sightseeing for visiting temple(s),monument(s), trekking and national parks

farewell dinners

English-speaking, well trained and experienced guide

Transportation in a Local Bus

All applicable Government taxes and service charges

Potter service charges during the trek

What's not included

Nepalese visa fee

International airfare to and from Kathmandu

Excess baggage charges

Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu

Extra night accommodation(s)

Travel and rescue insurance

Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.

Tips for guides and porters

The services which are not included in our ‘What is Included’ section

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure Private Limited who will drop us off at our hotel.

Day 02: Kathmandu: sightseeing and trek preparation

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and the Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. The meeting will provide us an opportunity to ask any question we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,550m/5,100ft): 7-8 hours

We leave Kathmandu in the morning for Syabrubesi, a village which is also the starting point for treks into the Langtang valley. Our journey will be on a winding road through frequent switchbacks. On a clear day we get to enjoy outstanding views of Manaslu, Annapurna and Ganesh Himal. Our trek for today ends with a descent into the small village of Syabrubesi. Overnight in Syabrubesi.

Day 04: Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,380m/7,830ft): 6 hours

After breakfast, we begin our trek to Syabrubesi along the Langtang Khola. We ascend and descend simultaneously through oak and rhododendron forests. After crossing a bridge over the Langtang Khola (small river), we ascend on a steep trail which will lead us to the Lama Hotel. Overnight in Lama Hotel.

Day 05: Trek to Mundu (3543m/11,621ft) via Langtang village: 6-7 hours

We continue ascending from Lama Hotel and enjoy the mountain landscape with abundant waterfalls. As we reach the green meadows of Ghoda Tabela, we begin to see the white peaks of the Langtang range. Our trail continues to climb up the widening valley, passing a few temporary settlements used by herders. We pass a Buddhist monastery before reaching the Langtang village which was affected by the April 2015 earthquake. We continue on our trail to Mundu. Overnight in Mundu.

Day 06: Mundu to Kyangjin Gompa (3,870m/12,697ft): 4-5 hours

After breakfast, we will start our journey to Kyangjin Gompa, a principal monastery of the region. We pass by water mills, prayer wheels, chortens, with sacred mounds of rocks with inscriptions carved on them. We also pass by the largest mani wall in Nepal, made from stone with prayers written on them. After the short trek, we spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the Buddhist shrine in Kyangjin Gompa and surrounding areas with the amazing views of the mountains.

Day 07: Acclimatization: explore Tserko Ri (5,000m/16,404ft) 7-8 hours

We spend the whole day exploring Tserko Ri which will also help us acclimatize to the high altitude. We begin early in the morning. The trail passes through yak pastures before ascending to Tserko Ri. The sunrise view from the top of Tserko Ri is extraordinary. We get back to Kyangjin Gompa by late afternoon and explore the beautiful monastery while enjoying views of the Himalayas, glaciers, birds and yaks.

Day 08: Kyangjin Gompa to Lama Hotel: 6-7 hours

We begin our trek after breakfast and retrace our steps to Lama Hotel. Most of the trekking today will be downhill as we pass through forests and beautiful Tamang villages. We also get to enjoy different view of the Himalayas that we had missed climbing up. Overnight in Lama Hotel.

Day 09: Lama Hotel to Thulo Syabru (2,230m/ 7,316 ft): 5-6 hours

We begin our trek with a climb up to the Rimche Village. From here we descend to the banks of the Langtang Khola. We continue on an easy trail to Bamboo and begin ascending to Landslide Lodge. From here we continue our trek to Thulo Syabru. There are two trails as we cross another bridge. We follow the one that passes by Pahare hotel and a waterfall at 2210 m to reach Thulo Syabru. Overnight in Thulo Syabru.

Day 10: Thulo Syabru to Shin Gompa: 3-4 hours

Today will be a short walk but it is important to not reach Gosaikunda today because the steady gain in altitude will help us acclimatize better to the high altitude. After trekking for a while we pass by a chorten and a checkpoint. From the checkpoint, we move south and pass by Garta Village and Phulung Monastery before reaching Shin Gompa to spend the night.

Day 11: Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda (4,460m/14,632ft): 5-6 hours

Today we get to enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the Himalayas including the Annapurnas, Hiunchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang. We follow a ridge for the most part of the day and catch a glimpse of the first of the holy lakes. The third lake, Gosaikunda (4380m), is of particular religious and cultural significance for the Nepalese and is one of Nepal’s most sought after pilgrimage sites. The lake is surrounded by mountains on almost all sides and has a great ensemble of nine other lakes to accompany it. Every year during Janai Purnima in August, hundreds of Hindu pilgrims visit the lake for a holy bath. The large rock at the center of the lake is said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine. Overnight in Gosaikunda.

Day 12: Gosaikunda to Ghopte (3,440m/11,286ft): 6-8 hours

We move around the lake’s shore before ascending towards the Laurebina Pass (4610m). The Helambu region begins at the Lauribina La (pass) and descends to the Melamchi valley. The trail is rough and crosses moraines, but is well marked with cairns. We pass through three more small lakes before reaching the pass. We climb a small hill and enjoy excellent views of the area. Our trail passes through Surya kunda before reaching Ghopte. Overnight in Ghopte.

Day 13: Ghopte to Melamchigaon (2,560m/8,399ft): 6-7 hours

We walk uphill and downhill on a trail that passes through dense forests. Walking on a trail through the forest will take us to Thare Pati Village. We climb a ridge above the village and continue our trek. The view from the ridge of the Nepalese hills and Soli Danda in particular is beautiful. We cross two suspension bridges before reaching Melamchigaon which is a beautiful village that houses a monastery. Overnight in Melamchigaon.

Day 14: Melamchigaon to Tarkeghyang (2,590m/8,497ft): 5-6 hours

We pass a stupa and cross a small stream below Tarkeghyang. Our trail passes through forests that lead up to Ama Yangri which is the highest point of our trek today located at 3,800m. There is a stupa and Buddhist prayer flags at the top of the hill. Furthermore, we get stunning views of Mt. Shishapangma and the Langtang ranges. The mountains are so close that we feel that we can almost touch them. As we descend we can often see yaks grazing in the bushes before entering a forest. We also walk on a trail made of broken stone before reaching Tarkeghyang which is a beautiful Sherpa village. Overnight in Tarkheghyang.

Day 15: Tarkeghyang to Sermathang (2,610m/8,563ft): 3-5 hours

We begin our trek after breakfast. The trail is easy and passes through lush forests. We also pass by beautiful villages, chortens, a monastery and a mani wall before reaching Sermathang. It’s a beautiful Sherpa Village with incredible views of Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal and the Langtang ranges. On a clear day, we can even see Mt. Everest in the distance. Overnight in Sermanthang.

Day 16: Trek to Melamchi Bazaar, drive to Kathmandu: 3-4 hours trek, 2 hours drive

We trek through meadows, fields and beautiful villages to reach Melamchi Bazaar. From here we drive to Kathmandu and reminisce about our trip in the Langtang and Helambu regions. After reaching Kathmandu, we freshen up and take a rest. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner hosted by Himlayan Glacier to celebrate the successful completion of our trip. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 17: Departure Day

Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today ! A Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure representative will drop you off at the International airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight.

Important notes

• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Valid from the time you exchange your voucher, for the duration selected.

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.

Religious 2-3 hours Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.

Historical/Architectural Half-day trip NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dal Bhat

A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)

Momo

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Snack/Appetizer Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan

Sel Roti

A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)

Gundruk

A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Popular Activities

Trekking Mountain biking Paragliding Rafting Yoga and meditation retreats Spa treatments Café hopping Gardening

Best Time to Visit

October to November and March to April

These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

20-30°C (68-86°F) 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Nepali
Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Time Zone

Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
• Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Galkopul, Kalanki

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Thamel Boudha Patan (Lalitpur) Bhaktapur

Day trips

Nagarkot

32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.

Dhulikhel

30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.

Changunarayan

18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.

Festivals

Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year) Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year) Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn