langtang trek wiki

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley is a classic trekking destination, located only 61.8km away from aerial distance, north of Kathmandu.

Although the Langtang Valley Trek is relatively short, accessible, and cheap, the trails are quieter with less number of trekkers compared to other classic trekking destinations in Nepal .

The trek is ideal for both experienced trekkers as well as novice travel enthusiasts. This trek provides an incredible opportunity to traverse through beautiful Tamang villages, diverse landscapes, eye-catching waterfalls, high Himalayan valleys, monasteries, and densely forested areas.

The mountain trails to Langtang also offers you a spectacular sight of the glaciers and mountains including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Ganja La Pass.

Protected as Langtang National Park , it is home to an abundance of exotic animals and birds. On a lucky day, you may spot plenty of wild animals including red panda, langur, musk deer, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr along with birds like Himalayan monal, white-winged redstart, and the snow Patridge.

Before the catastrophic earthquake in 2015, Langtang used to be one of the most commercial trekking destinations in Nepal. The region was severely affected and damaged by the earthquake. Some of the villages in the region were destroyed and buried under the rubble. However, after massive reconstruction and renovation efforts, the area is now open for the trekkers.

Table of Content

Langtang Valley Trek Facts

Highlights of langtang valley trek.

• Langtang Valley is a relatively short and accessible trekking destination with a fantastic Himalayan experience.
• Relish the beautiful spectacles of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Jugal Himal.
• Breathtaking climb to the vantage point of Tserko Ri at the elevation of 5033m.
• Explore the beautiful Tamang villages and get a more in-depth insight into their cultures and heritages.
• Opportunity to witness rare animals like the red panda, snow leopard, langur, and musk deer.
• Explore the ancient monastery of Kyanjin Gompa.

Getting There and Away

Start of the Trek

Your journey to Langtang Valley Trek begins with a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. The drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi covers the total distance of 122km. Although reasonably short in distance, there is still no luxury transportation services available for this region. You can drive to Syabrubesi either by local bus or local/private jeep.

The local bus departs from Machhapokhari every morning from 7 to 9 AM. The bus fare may cost you from $6 to $8 depending upon the different transportation companies. The main discomfort while driving on a local bus is congested seats and too many passengers.

The local jeep will cost about $8 to $10 per person on a sharing basis. You can take these jeeps from Machhapokhari as well. They depart every morning from 6:30 to 9 AM.

If you’re willing to hire a private jeep, it’ll cost you around $150 for a group of 6-7 travelers.

The road condition you travel along reveals its pathetic and rough forms. The highway from Kathmandu to Trishuli Bazaar is good with a narrow winding road.  However, once you drive further from Trishuli Bazaar, the road becomes rough and bumpy. Along the way, you come to experience some dreadful landslides.

End of the Trek

Since both starting point and endpoint of Langtang Valley Trek is at Syabrubesi, you’ll be retracing the route backward from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu at the end of the trek.

You’ll have similar transportation options while traveling from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary of Langtang Valley Trek – 8 Days

Lantang valley trek detailed 8 days itinerary, day 1: drive from kathmandu (1,400m) to syabru besi (1,550m) – 7 to 8 hours.

The adventure of Langtang Valley Trek begins with a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi. You can either take a local bus from Macchapokhari or hire a jeep to Syabru Besi.

As soon as the bus departs from Kathmandu, the road climbs over the ridge offering majestic views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Annapurna. The condition of the highway is extremely rocky and rough with tons of potholes and small ditches.

You’ll be driving alongside the Trishuli river for most of the day. Driving past the bustling town of Trisuli, the road leads towards Dhunche, the administrative center of Rasuwa District. Make sure to keep your TIMS card and National Park Permit in an easily accessible place as you’ll need to show them at the Park Gate right before Dhunche. After driving for another hour downhill from the town of Dhunche, you’ll reach Syabru Besi.

Day 2: Trek from Syabru Besi (1,550m) to Lama Hotel (2,380m) – 6 to 7 hours

You’ll start the trek from Syabru Besi by crossing the bridge over the Ying Yang River. The trail ascends and descends simultaneously through the dense sub-tropical forest alongside Langtang Khola.

As the trek continues, oak and rhododendron trees dominate the surroundings. While walking in the woods, make sure to watch out for the langur monkeys. The trail goes steep and slightly strenuous through the forest up to Lama Hotel.

Day 3: Trek from Lama Hotel (2,380m) to Mundu (3,430m) via Langtang Village – 6 to 7 hours

On this day, the forest trail continues through plenty of waterfalls and occasional glimpses of Langtang Lirung. At Ghoda Tabela, the path emerges out of the woodlands into the lush green meadow. The snow-capped peaks of the Langtang range begin to appear on either side of the valley.

The trail further continues to a gentle uphill, passing a few temporary settlements towards Langtang village. Before the 2015 earthquake, Langtang village was once a bustling settlement with plenty of teahouses and lodges. A massive rock field surrounds the entire valley. Mundu village is only half an hour away from Langtang village.

Day 4: Trek from Mundu (3,430m) to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) – 3 hours

Today, the trail continues gradually passing water mills, chortens, prayer flags, and sacred mounds of rocks with carved inscriptions. The route heads upwards to a yak pasture where the sight becomes more extensive with the mountain views.

As you cross over some moraines and small streams, you’ll reach Kyanjin Gompa. Since this is the shortest day of the trek, you’ll arrive at Kyanjin Gompa by lunchtime. So, if you do not want to spend the day resting, we recommend you head towards Langshisha Kharka for incredible views.

Day 5: Excursion to Tserko Ri (5,000m) – 5 to 6 hours

Hike up to the vantage point at Tserko Ri to relish the incredible sights of the mountains, glaciers, and the Langtang valley. Tserko Ri marks the highest elevation point of the trek at 5,000m above sea level.

Since you’ll return to Kyanjin Gompa by the afternoon, you can also explore the ancient monastery of the village. Additionally, you can also visit the cheese factory and glacier.

Day 6: Trek from Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) to Lama Hotel (2,380m) – 6 to 7 hours

On this day, you retrace the route from Kyanjin Gompa back to Lama Hotel. The way follows back alongside the Langtang River through Mundu village to Ghoda Tabela. The trail is mostly downhill throughout the day. Upon reaching Ghoda Tabela, you’ll continue descending on a steep downhill to Lama Hotel.

Day 7: Trek from Lama Hotel (2,380m) to Syabru Besi (1,550m) – 6 to 7 hours

Two different trails lead to Syabru Besi. You can either retrace the route enjoying the forest from Lama Hotel or you can take a detour from Rimche via Sherpa Gaun to Syabru Besi.

The detour from Rimche takes much longer to arrive at Syabru Besi, but this spectacular route is worth the time.

Day 8: Drive from Syabru Besi (1,550m) to Kathmandu (1,400m) – 8 to 10 hours

On the final day, you drive back from Syabru Besi to Kathmandu. If you’re early, you can catch a local bus from here. Otherwise, you can also take a local jeep for a slightly convenient experience. It takes about 7-8 hours to drive from Syabru Besi to Kathmandu.

Langtang Valley and Gosainkunda Extension

If time permits, you can combine the Langtang Valley Trek with Gosainkunda. The trek offers remote trails with spectacular views of the mountains at Langtang and high Himalayan lake at Gosainkunda.

Gosainkunda, a holy glacial lake at an elevation of 4,380m, is a shrine of Hindus. The diverse landscapes, lush green forest, terraced fields, hills, and scenic mountain views make Gosainkunda one of the most stunning trekking destinations in Nepal.

Langtang Valley Trek with Gosainkunda Extension begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi and then follows through the Langtang Valley. The trail to Gosainkunda connects from Thulo Syapru while retracing the route back from Langtang Trek. The path is quite steep from Thulo Syabru to Sing Gompa and up to the pristine lake of Gosainkunda.

Best Time to Travel in Langtang Region

Trekking to Langtang Valley is possible throughout the year. However, Spring season (March to May) right after the cold winter and in Autumn season (September to November) right after the soaking monsoon are two most popular periods to visit the Langtang region.

In most of the days during the Autumn, the temperature remains moderate with a crystal clear sky. This means the temperature during this time of the year is perfect for walking. Also, you get to witness the incredible scenery of the Himalayas throughout the trek. However, the only drawback to trek at this time of the year is the crowded trails.

During the spring season, the temperature is slightly warmer during the day, and the sky looks hazy at times. This means the view may not be as exceptional as the Autumn.

Winter brings cold and harsh weather, especially at the higher elevations. Thick snow covers the trails making it hard to walk during winter. However, the skies are unclouded and reward magnificent sights. If you’re planning to trek to Langtang Valley during the winter, make sure to pack warm clothes and high-quality sleeping bags.

Monsoon is the least favorable time to go trekking in Langtang. The temperature is far too unstable with wet and slippery trails. Since dense forests dominate this region, the risk of leeches increases extensively. Trekking in monsoon demands proper preparation and packing.

Here’s a table indicating the details of average temperature and rainfall of different places en-route to Langtang Valley Trek:

How Difficult is Langtang Valley Trek?

Langtang Valley Trek is a short and moderate trek that does not require any technical skills or previous trekking experience. You can complete the entire trek in 8 to 10 days, walking 5 to 7 hours per day.

The most challenging section of Langtang Trek is the hike from Kyanjin Gompa to Tserko Ri. The trail to Tserko Ri is mostly steep uphill on the rocky Himalayan terrain. However, on most days, the path is easy and comfortable with a pleasant walk.

The highest elevation point in Langtang Valley Trek is 5,000m above sea level. Therefore, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the significant threats while trekking in Langtang. You are required to take all the necessary precautions while traveling in such high elevation. Insist on drinking plenty of water, and be aware of the symptoms of AMS.

The weather in the Himalayas is always unpredictable, especially in the upper reaches. Therefore, it is essential to pack all the necessary equipment while trekking in Langtang Valley. If you’re planning to trek during monsoon season, stay cautious on the trail. There are plenty of landslide-prone areas en-route to Langtang Valley.

While this trek may be relatively easy for experienced trekkers, it does demand a certain level of physical fitness and attitude. One proper way to keep yourself fit for the trek is to engage in cardio-oriented exercises.

What Permits are Requied for Langtang Valley Trek?

You only require two different permits —  TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System) and Langtang National Park Entry Permit, while trekking to Langtang Valley.

There are three types of TIMS Card; blue for organized group trekkers, green for individual travelers, and a pink one for SAARC nationals. You can acquire TIMS Card from Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or Trekkers Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Secretariat in Kathmandu.

Since you’ll be trekking through the Langtang National Park also need an exclusive National Park Permit to enter the area. The permit is available in Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, or you can also get them from the entry gate at Dhunche.

While issuing a TIMS Card, you’ll require your passport, four passport size photos, insurance details, and contact details of someone in Nepal.

Here’s the price of the permits required for Langtang Valley Trek:

Insurance for the Trek

Having travel insurance is an excellent idea if you’re planning to trek to Langtang Valley. While trekking in such high elevations, you may come across unexpected situations. Therefore, it is essential to get travel insurance for Langtang Trek.

Make sure to choose a policy that covers emergency helicopter evacuation, medical costs, natural disasters, theft, and losses. While several companies provide travel insurance, we advise you to get it from World Nomads. The best thing about World Nomads is that you can claim, buy, or extend the policy anytime online from anywhere — even while traveling.

Guided VS Independent

Since Langtang Valley Trek is a moderate walk, you can do it both independently or with a guide. If you’re planning a solo adventure and have prior trekking experience, this trek is an excellent choice for you. The route does not disperse into other trails, and occasional signposts mark the entire trail. Therefore, the risk of taking the wrong path is very minimal.

Altitude is the primary threat while trekking to Langtang Valley. Stay aware and precautious regarding this factor.

Trekking independently is relatively cheaper than hiring a guide, but you need to deal with hassles of transportation, teahouses, food and permit. It is always handy to have an experienced guide at high altitude treks. The guide will assist you throughout the trek and will make sure of your safety.

An experienced guide will also know about the place, culture, people, and the mountains. You’ll also get more in-depth information about the valley if you hire an experienced guide.

Accommodation and Food

On Langtang Valley Trek, you will mostly stay at the teahouses, which provide rooms, food, and basic amenities like wifi, hot shower, and charging facilities. On the lower reaches of Langtang Valley Trek, you will get high standard rooms with attached bathrooms. These teahouses will offer standard services but may charge you higher than normal rates. Some of the teahouses provide device charging facilities at free of cost.

As you get higher on the trail, teahouses provide only essential services with twin shared rooms. The rooms have two single beds, a thin mattress, a pair of bedsheets, and a cushion. The toilets are usually on a sharing basis without the facility of running water. You’ll have to pay the additional amount for a hot shower, wifi, and charging facilities.

These teahouses also have their restaurant, serving meals to the guests. The choices in the menu are limited, but portions of the food will be quite substantial and filling. Generally, the menu offers Dal Bhat, chowmein, omelet, fried potatoes, pancakes, Tibetan bread, and soups. The non-veg items include yak meat, canned fish, and chicken.

Langtang Valley Trek Cost

The plenty of factors like trek duration, transportation, type of trek, and season determine the cost of the trek. On average, the total cost of 8-day Langtang Valley Trek can be around US$ 300-400.

You’ll require TIMS Card and Langtang National Park Entry Permits to trek to Langtang Valley. For individual trekkers, the cost of the TIMS Card is US$ 18 while for group trekkers, it is US$ 9 her head. Additionally, the National Park Entry Permit costs US$ 27 per person.

The charge of the teahouses depends on season. Generally, the rooms in Langtang will cost approximately US$ 5 to 10 per night with an additional US$ 4 to 6 per meal.

A local bus from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi will cost about US$ 6-8 per person at par various transport companies. You can also take a local jeep that will cost you around US$ 8-10. Additionally, you can also hire a private jeep for $150 for a group of 6 to 7 people.

If you hire a licensed guide, they will charge you US$ 22 to 25 per day. If you hire a porter,  it’ll cost you approximately US$ 15 to 18 per day. If you want to hire a porter-guide, they’ll charge you US$ 18 to 20 per day.

Packing List for Langtang Valley Trek

• Duffel Bags
• Trekking Shirt: Pack at least 5 to 7 shirts balancing both long and short.
• Trekking Trousers: Carry a minimum of 2 trekking trousers with a couple of shorts.
• Base Layer: Pack a couple of wool base layers to stay protected from the cold in the upper reaches of the trek.
• Insulation Layer: We recommend you pack a high-quality fleece jacket.
• Outer Layer: Carry a warm and waterproof jacket for extreme weather.
• Waterproof Shell Jacket: Pack a pair of waterproof jackets for wet weather.
• Breathable Underwear: Minimum 5 to 6 pairs of breathable underwear.
• Hiking Boots: Invest in high-quality waterproof hiking boots. Make sure the boot is lightweight and comfortable.
• Trainers/Sandals: It is handy to carry a pair of trainers or sandals.
• Hiking Socks: You should carry 4-6 pairs of breathable hiking socks.
• Thermal Socks: A pair of thermal socks to keep your feet protected from the cold in the higher altitudes.

Head Wears:

• Sun Protection Hat: Carry a protection hat to protect your face from the harsh sun.
• Beanie: An absolute must to keep yourself warm, especially during the evening and night.
• Buff/Neck Gaiter: This small piece of gear comes in handy to protect your neck from the cold winds and also helps you stay protected from the dust.
• Inner Gloves: Pack light inner gloves as they can be useful when the temperature is moderate.
• Outer Gloves: You’ll be wearing them in the upper reaches of the trek. Outer gloves need to be insulated, warm, and waterproof.

Sleeping Bags:

Sleeping bags are the most crucial gears while trekking in the Langtang region. With basic rooms and sleeping facilities, you can never rely on the teahouses for warm, decent blankets.

Therefore, we advise you to invest in a high-quality, 4-season sleeping bag while trekking in Langtang.

Important Accessories:

• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottle
• Basic Medical Kits
• UV Protection Sunglasses
• Water Purification Tablets
• Hand Sanitizers
• Sunscreen/Lip Balm
• Trekking Towels
• Portable Chargers

Network Information

Both Ncell and NTC networks do not work in the Langtang Valley. Once you depart from Kathmandu, NTC services are not available, and Ncell works only up to Lama Hotel. Sky Network is the most preferred telecommunication service in the Langtang Valley. Sky Network works throughout the entire trek, from the lower reaches up to the higher elevations.

Remember, phone services may not be consistent throughout the entire region. Due to the inconsistency of networks, the mobile internet will also be unstable. However, most of the teahouses do provide WiFi facilities, but it might cost you a few extra bucks.

The majority of the teahouses in Langtang have landline phones. In case of emergencies, landline phones are the best way to connect with your emergency contacts.

Useful Tips for Langtang Valley Trekking

• While trekking in the upper reaches of Langtang Valley, you’re in a constant threat of suffering from acute mountain sickness (AMS). It is crucial to drink more water and take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from altitude sickness.
• Packing the right equipment is essential while trekking to Langtang Valley. If you do not wish to buy all the expensive trekking gears, we advise you to rent them in Kathmandu.
• Although Langtang Valley Trek is a relatively moderate trek, it requires a certain level of physical fitness. We suggest you engaging in cardio-oriented activities like cycling, swimming and running, a month before the trek.
• It is not advisable to buy bottled waters as they pollute the trekking trail. We highly recommend you to fill up the water at the teahouses and use water purifiers to treat the water.
• Invest in high-quality hiking boots. If you’re planning to trek to Langtang Valley during monsoon or winter, buy waterproof boots that have sturdy soles.
• Before you go for trekking to Langtang Valley, get proper travel insurance that covers both medical costs and helicopter evacuation.
• Carry enough cash on the trek. ATMs are not available on the trail.

Accommodation in Kathmandu

Recommended travel agencies for langtang valley trek.

• Himalayas on Foot
• Magical Nepal
• Mosaic Adventure
• Nepal Eco Adventure

Recommended Books and Guidebooks

• A Trekking Guide to Langtang
• Lonely Planet Nepal (Travel Guide)
• The Rough Guide to Nepal
• Trekking in Langtang, Helambu & Gosainkund
• Climate Change and the Extreme Events in the Himalayas
• High Adventure
• The Snow Leopard

1.   Is it possible to do the Langtang Valley Trek solo/independently?

Langtang Valley Trek is a short and moderate walk in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is possible to do solo as well as in a group. The trail does not diverge in multiple routes and it occasionally marks the signposts. So, the trekkers do not stray off the path.

2.   How likely am I to suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness in Langtang Valley Trek?

Keep in mind, Langtang Valley Trek exceeds the elevation of 3000m above sea level. Once you cross the height of 3000m, the possibility of suffering from altitude sickness becomes higher. Therefore, it is crucial to drink more water and take the necessary precautions to stay safe from AMS.

3.   What type of accommodation can I expect in Langtang Trek?

In the lower region of Langtang, there are plenty of high standard lodges and teahouses that provide quality services. However, these teahouses are relatively expensive than the common one.

In the upper reaches of the trek, the teahouses offer rooms in sharing basis and other basic facilities.

4.   Is it safe to drink water in Langtang Valley Trek?

No, it is not safe to drink water directly from local streams or taps while trekking in the Langtang region. Bottled water is quite expensive on the trail. It is advisable to carry your bottle and fill the water in the teahouses. Carry water purifiers or SteriPen purifiers to treat the water before drinking.

5.   Do I need travel insurance before trekking to Langtang Valley?

While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly advisable to have one in high altitude treks. Even though Langtang Valley is a short and moderate, trekking in such high elevation is risky. Therefore, it is advisable to have proper travel insurance that covers all the necessary costs.

Langtang Valley Trek is a short and moderate trek in the Himalayas of Nepal. Easily accessible from Kathmandu, this trek is an excellent opportunity that rewards trekkers with authentic experience and warm hospitality.

Langtang Trek is an ideal choice for people who are looking to escape the massive crowd of Everest and Annapurna. It offers a diverse landscape, unique culture, beautiful scenery, and panoramic mountain spectacles.

Langtang Valley is also a perfect adventure destination to discover rare wildlife and plants. Carrying a decent camera is highly advisable as this trek offers plenty of opportunities to capture picture-perfect photographs.

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The Langtang trek brings you to a beautiful valley at the foot of the snow capped mountain peaks of Kyanjin Ri and Langtang Lirung. All are part of the Langtang National Park. 

Why choose the Langtang Trek?

So why choose the Langtang trek? My first response would be, because it is a very beautiful and diverse hike. The Langtang trek starts in lush forests where you might see langur monkeys or red panda’s and ends in the alpine meadows of Kyanjin gompa where yaks wander around.

Culturally it is also an interesting hike as you pass by multicultural villages with Tamang and Sherpa communities. Most ethnic groups along the Langtang trek are of Tibetan origin and follow Buddhism. 

The Langtang trek is one of the shortest tea house treks in Nepal and brings you to beautiful high altitude mountain sceneries in just a few days. Perfect if you are short on time, but if you prefer a longer hike it is easy to combine the Langtang trek with the Gosainkund lakes and the Helambu circuit.

The Langtang trek is also a sustainable choice as you do not need to fly to reach the start of the trail. Syabrubesi is an 8 hour bus journey from Kathmandu. Despite all these advantages, the Langtang trek gets relatively few visitors compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions. If you want to avoid the crowds, Langtang is a great destination. 

The Langtang Trek and the earthquake 

The Langtang area was hit hard by the earthquake in 2015 when a deadly avalanche completely destroyed Langtang village. The families that survived slowly rebuilt their lodges, but then covid came. If there is one area in Nepal where people can really benefit from the return of tourism, it is on the Langtang trek.   

I did the Langtang trek in 2010. Long before the earthquake hit the area. The Langtang village that I visited and stayed at, no longer exists and is still buried under the avalanche.  Survivors moved to Kyanjin gompa, but a new Langtang village is built 100 meters above the old one. 

As of now, the Langtang Trek is open again and there are enough lodges in the new Langtang village to receive trekkers.

Langtang Trek Itinerary

In this Langtang trek itinerary I mention every day the amount of time it took me from start to finish. I am a slow hiker though. I like to take frequent breaks to enjoy the beautiful views. 

If you are a fit hiker, you can probably do it in less time

Day 1: Bus from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

You need the first day to get from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the start of the Langtang trek. Like any bus journey in Nepal , it is a long and bumpy ride over winding mountain roads. Delays are common with frequent breakdowns or landslides blocking the road.

In theory, the bus journey to Syabrubesi takes around 8 hours. In practice, it often takes much longer. Buses stop everywhere to let in new passengers. Up till the point that the only place left for more people is on the roof.

My bus was half empty when we left Kathmandu, but one hour later was totally packed. As we left the city behind us the views got more beautiful and soon the peaks of the Himalaya were in sight. 

Right before Dunche there were some scary parts with steep cliffs right next to the road. Even the Nepali lady next to me was afraid.   

After 9 long hours I finally arrived at Syabrubesi. Because it was late in the afternoon I decided to stay the night.  

Logistics : Buses and shared jeeps to Dhunche and Syabrubesi leave everyday from the Gongabu bus station (new bus park or Machapokhari) in Kathmandu. Get there early as it is a chaotic bus station and buses to Langtang leave between 6 – 8 AM in the morning. It is best to reserve your tickets a day in advance at the bus station or at a travel agency in Thamel.

Insider tip : there are delux buses that are slightly more expensive, but don’t stop everywhere to let in new passengers. Shared jeeps are also slightly faster. The best option are private jeeps, but they are expensive ($150+) 

Day 2: Syabrubesi (1492) – Lama Hotel (2447) 

15 kilometers, 7 hours, altitude gain 1070+

The first day of the Langtang trek is also one of the most difficult days of the trek as you gain more than a 1000 meters in altitude. It starts with a 3 hour gentle climb up to Bamboo village.

Bamboo village is about halfway and a great place for a lunch break. After Bamboo the climb gets more steep, but is still not too difficult if you take it easy. 

Overall, I really enjoyed my first day. Most of the day is right next to the Langtang river and through lush forests where I saw langur monkeys in the trees. In total it took me little over 7 hours to reach Lama Hotel or Changtang village. A cluster of lodges in the forest.  

Day 3: Lama Hotel (2447) – Langtang village (3430)

14 kilometers, 6 hours, altitude gain 980+

The second day of the Langtang trek is another day of long ascents. The first half of the day is still next to the river and through the forests. However, after 3 hours you leave the forests behind you and enter the beautiful Langtang valley.

Ghodatabela is midway and a great place to stop for lunch. From here you have beautiful views on the snow capped mountain peaks of the Himalayas. The second half of the day is through the glacial valley past small rural villages.

Langtang village used to be the largest and oldest village in the Langtang valley. Famous for its yak yogurt and yak cheese. Langtang village was swept away by an avalanche in the 2015 earthquake. Slowly a new village is built and there are a number of new lodges to stay the night.

Day 4: Langtang village (3430) – Kyanjin Gompa (3900)

7 kilometers, 4 hours, altitude gain 470+

The third day of the Langtang valley is the shortest and only has a small gain in altitude. I did feel the ascent more than the previous days though which probably had to do with being over 3000 meters high. 

I felt tired easily and was more quickly out of breath. Therefore, I had to take frequent breaks. Stil, I enjoyed every step I took because of the spectacular views. Between Langtang village and Kyanjin gompa are a few yak herding villages with visible buddhist influences such as ancient mani walls and stupas.

Kyanjin gompa was the most lively village I visited in the Langtang valley. Yaks and horses were grazing in the fields, children were playing outside and women walked outside carrying buckets of yak milk. 

Kyanjin gompa is a good place to try yak yogurt or yak cheese and the yak cheese factory is definitely worth a visit.   

Day 5: Kyanjin Gompa

Kyanjin Gompa is a great place to stay for at least one day to explore the valley. For half day hikes you can choose between the peaks of Kyanjin Ri and Tsergo Ri that both offer beautiful viewpoints. The hike up to the summer yak pastures of Langshisha Kharka is a long and challenging day trip. 

Day 6: Kyanjin Gompa – Lama Hotel

20 km, 8 hours, altitude loss -1440

The sixth day of the Langtang valley trek was a very long day walking back from Kyanjin Gompa all the way to Lama Hotel. At Ghodatabela I was doubting whether to stop and still had energy, but I miscalculated the time it took to reach Lama Hotel. Being alone in the forest with misty clouds in the mountains and the sun setting was very beautiful, but I was glad to reach the warmth of my guesthouse just before dark. 

Day 7: Lama Hotel – Syabrubesi

15 kilometers, 7 hours, altitude loss -1070

The seventh day of the Langtang valley trek I felt a bit sad that this would be my last day of hiking. I loved being back in the forests and once again saw langur monkeys. It felt too soon for my lunch break at Bamboo and my arrival at Syabrubesi.  

Day 8: bus back to Kathmandu

Going back to Kathmandu after trekking in the mountains of Nepal always brings mixed feelings. Of course I am looking forward to the comforts and delicious foods in Kathmandu, but at the same time I am missing the mountains as soon as I take my seat in the bus back. 

The Langtang Trek Travel tips

Langtang trek permits.

For the Langtang trek you need two permits.

TIMS card : The Trekkers information management card is necessary for almost all treks in Nepal. You can get your TIMS card at the Tourism Board office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. Bring your passport and two passport size photos. The TIMS card costs 2000 nepalese rupees.  

National Park Entrance permit : For the Langtang trek you also need a national park entrance permit. Although you can get this at the checkpoints in Dunche and Syabrubesi I recommend you to get it as well at the Tourism Board Office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. This costs 3000 nepalese rupees plus 13% VAT.  

Do I need a guide on the Langtang Trek?

The Langtang trek is moderately difficult, but easy to do without a guide. There is one trail to follow and it is hard to get lost. Unless you go off season there will be enough other hikers on the trail to keep you company. 

If you are alone and not that experienced you might want to consider joining a guided trek or hiring a guide, porter or porter guide. 

In Nepal there is a clear distinction between a porter and a guide. A guide shows you the way and can tell you more about the history and the culture of the places you visit. A porter will only carry your luggage. Despite their heavy burden they often walk far in front of you and might have reached the lodge when you are only midway. A porterguide is less common, but does both.

If you prefer a female guide I can recommend the 3 sisters adventure trekking that works to empower women and trains women to become trekking guides in Nepal.    

Update April 2023 : The Nepal Tourism Board issued a press release that trekking without a guide is no longer permitted from 1 April 2023 onwards. Trekkers planning to hike in Nepal’s National Parks where you normally need a TIM’s card should have a government licensed guide that is registered with the official Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) . It is unclear yet how this rule will play out in practice. Everest issued a press release stating that they will not enforce it. Other areas do. However, there are no guidelines on how they are going to implement the ban on solo trekking .

Accomodation on the Langtang Trek

Along the Langtang trek there is plenty of accomodation and teahouses to choose from. They are rather basic compared to other treks like, The Gokyo Lakes , Poon hill trek or the Annapurna Circuit . They can’t be booked online beforehand. There is a first come first serve basis and some lodges are fully booked by big tour groups.

At the regular stops like Lama Hotel, Langtang village and Kyanjin Gompa there are enough lodges that there will always be a bed for you somewhere. 

The prices of accomodation is incredibly cheap, sometimes even free, but they do expect you to order dinner and breakfast at their establishment. 

Food on the Langtang Trek

The good thing about tea house treks in Nepal is that however basic lodges might be, the food is often quite good if you stick to Nepali cuisine. Yes, many lodges try all kinds of international dishes to attract tourists, but in my opinion often not the best choice.

When trekking in Nepal I eat Dahl bath at least once a day. This national dish of rice with lentils knows a huge variety. Different vegetable curries from fermented spinach to roasted cauliflower and different pickles to spice it up. Not one dahl bath is the same. 

Other Nepali foods to try are Tibetan bread, Thukpa and Momo’s.  

When to hike the Langtang Trek

The best time to go trekking in Nepal is spring and autumn.January and February will be too cold with lots of snow on the trail. March, April and May are the warmer months before the monsoon. As the rainy season approaches it can become hot, dusty and humid, but this is not a problem at the higher altitude Langtang valley. Another highlight in spring are the blooming rhododendrons

June, July and August are the monsoon months bringing lots of rain and leeches at the lower altitudes. The biggest problem regarding the Langtang trek is the high chances of landslides on the road from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and muddy trails.

September, October and November are the most popular months for trekking. Autumn brings clear blue skies and mild temperatures before the cold sets in in December. Autumn is also a festive season with the celebration of Dashain and Tihar . Nepal’s biggest festivals .   

Altitude Sickness on the Langtang Trek

The Langtang trek involves a rapid gain of altitude with Syabrubesi at less than 1500 meters high and Kyanjin gompa at 3900 meters high. Experts advise to not ascend more than 300 – 400 meters per day once you are above 3000 meters high. This Langtang trek itinerary actually ascends a little bit more than that and therefore it is important to be cautious of altitude sickness.

The key to prevent altitude sickness is to take it slow, give your body enough time to adjust to the height and to drink enough water. Diamox is a medicine that might help your body to acclimatize, but will not cure altitude sickness once you have severe symptoms. In that case, the only remedy is to go down to a lower altitude as soon as possible.   

Mild symptoms may include being tired and more easily out of breath. More severe symptoms of high altitude sickness are headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, breathing problems, loss of appetite and nausea. 

Take these symptoms seriously and watch out for symptoms in others, even in your nepali guides or porters. It is a misconception that they cannot get altitude sickness. 

Langtang Trek Books and Guides

Cicerone and Trailblazer both have excellent and comprehensive guides about treks in Nepal. Unfortunately their guidebooks about Langtang are out of print and somewhat outdated. Still, if you can get one of those I would certainly recommend it.  

Another option is the Lonely Planet’s trekking in the Nepal Himalayas guide. However, even the newest version was released shortly after the earthquake and lots of things have changed in Langtang since.

Langtang Trek packing list

If you need to carry your own gear on a multi day trek the advice is to bring as little as possible. The Langtang trek is not difficult and there is no need to bring a tent or food. Below a few things to consider

Sun protection : no matter what time of the year, you will need to bring protection against the sun. Sunscreen and a hat are a must.

Rain protection : there is always a risk of rain. I brought a poncho along that protected both me and my backpack from the rain.

Sturdy shoes : There is no need for proffesional hiking boots. However, there are rocky trails. Bring sturdy shoes that fit you well. Don’t bring brand new shoes. Make sure they are tested and comfortable to prevent blisters.

Hiking socks : Besides good shoes, hiking socks are key to prevent blisters. Merino wool socks are lightweight and dry quickly. Wrightsocks are specially designed with double layers to prevent blisters. Decathlon has good merino wool socks too.

Layers : there can be a big difference in temperatures during the day and night. The best way to deal with this is to wear layers. As a base layer I bought merino wool tshirts. I had a fleece vest as a midlayer and as the upper layer I had a windproof jacket.

Backpack : Your shoes and backpack are two things that will have a big influence on the comfort of your multi day trek. I recommend to go to an outdoor store to get some good advice to buy a backpack that fits your torso length and that is comfortable when you wear it. I own the Osprey Fairview trek 50 that I am very happy with.

Reusable water bottle : to prevent plastic waste I always bring a reusable water bottle with me and a water filter or steri pen.  

Sustainable Travel on the Langtang Trek

Although the Langtang trek is not as crowded as other trails, tourism is increasing. The trails become more crowded and pollution is a growing problem. Traveling sustainably to the Himalayas is essential to minimize your environmental impact and preserve the area’s natural beauty for future generations.

Support the local community : You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors. It is better to try Nepali Cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Nepali food is vegetarian friendly and it is very easy to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

You can try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Leave no trace principle : When hiking the Langtang Trek, stick to designated trails to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. Straying off the marked paths can cause soil erosion and damage to plant life. If you are lucky enough to spot wildlife, observe quietly from a distance to prevent disruption to their habitats and help maintain their natural behaviors.

I encourage you to take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to be sensitive of the community’s way of life. Nepal is a multicultural country and on the trail you will encounter different ethnic groups.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Nepali, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a travel guide about the Langtang trek in Nepal contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

2 thoughts on “The Langtang Trek Itinerary: the ultimate guide”

Thanks for this great overview. It’s just what I was looking for

Hi! Happy to read it! Being a trekking – tourist guide, i want leave one suggesstion : While you stay a couple of days at kyanjing gumba, should not miss to hike to Tserku-Ri (4984m)

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Langtang Valley Trek – One Of The World’s Most Beautiful Valleys

Asia , Nepal

The Langtang Valley Trek is a relatively easy trek  and is often far less busy than other  popular treks in Nepal . The trek can be done in seven days; however, it usually takes 10 to 12 days.

On this page, you will find a comprehensive and impartial guide to the Langtang Valley Trek.

Langtang Valley Trek

Route overview.

The famed British mountaineer and travel writer, Bill Tilman (1898-1977), called this “one of the world’s most beautiful valleys.” 

The local people in the Langtang Valley are mostly of Tibetan origin and, according to legend, the valley was first discovered by a lama – a teacher of Tibetan Buddhism – who was pursuing a runaway yak. “Lang” is Tibetan for “lama” while “tang” is Tibetan for “follow.”

The highlight of the Langtang Valley Trek is the sight of the Langtang Lirung range, which is simply stunning. The eponymous mountain is 23,773 feet high and dominates the valley.

Langtang Regional Map

The Langtang valley region is in central Nepal, around 19 miles directly north of Kathmandu and near the border with Tibet. Although close to Kathmandu, closer than any other trek, this is as wild as it gets.

As you can see from the map above, the valley runs from east to west, sandwiched between the Himalayas to the north and the slightly lower Langtang Lirung range to the south.

Langtang Recommended Map

We believe the best map of the Lantang region is the Langtang & Helambu Map of the GHT which can be purchased online via Amazon. The map is produced based on data collected from the National Geographic Information Infrastructure Programme (NGIIP).

Langtang Trek Itinerary

It is possible to conduct this trek staying only at tea houses, but there is some time under canvas in this particular itinerary. There are several trek itineraries for this route, however, the one below is the most popular. You could also possibly arrange to meet your operator in Syabrubesi if you want to make your own way there.

Day 1-2: Arrive Kathmandu

You will arrive in Kathmandu on the first day. 

You have the second day to spare while the provider arranges things. Kathmandu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , so you could use the time to explore some the incredible local sites. Or you could do some last-minute shopping around the markets.

Day 3: Drive to Syabrubesi

Leaving early in the morning, you embark upon a seven-hour drive to Syabrubesi at the bottom of the Langtang Valley, the valley of glaciers. The second half is unpaved and the drive becomes quite rough. You might share a bus with goats and chickens. Sometimes, during the rainy season, the road is blocked by landslides.

The route is dazzling, passing through high ridges and with a marvellous panorama of the Himalayas that includes the Annapurnas, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu and the peaks of the Langtang range. There are many waterfalls and wild bee hives. You could also potentially see yellow-throated martins, Himalayan black bears or red pandas, which are endangered. There will certainly be no shortage of monkeys.

Day 4: Trek across the Bhote Kosi

Here, the trek begins properly. The trail takes you across the Bhote Kosi, which emanates from Tibet and lies in a deep gorge. You then climb through sub-tropical forests that teem with bird life, connecting to the trail from Syabru. One of these birds is the danphe, which is a colourful bird and the national bird of Nepal.

You will follow the river, ascending through uninhabited forests of oak and rhododendron, catching sight of langur monkeys if fortune smiles upon you. Vegetation becomes sparser as you go. You will camp overnight in a forest.

Day 5: Trek to Langtang

This day sees more climbing, with the occasional glimpse of Langtang Lirung visible through the trees. The trail leaves the forest at Ghora Tabela, now a Nepalese army post. The trail climbs comfortably, and the valley grows wider.

In summer, you will pass the temporary settlements of herders whose livestock grazes here. There are numerous chortens and mani walls, structures featuring inscriptions. In  Tintin in Tibet , Captain Haddock was informed that you should always walk to the left of a chorten or demons will be released, but this was an invention of the author, so there is no cause for worry.

Shortly before the village of Langtang, there is a monastery for your delectation. The village is the headquarters of the Langtang National Park, which opened in 1976, the first in the Himalayas and the most unspoiled in Nepal. Houses there are of Tibetan style, with flat roofs and surrounded by stone walls.

Day 6: Trek to Kyangjin and onward

You will climb slowly through small villages and yak pastures. The valley opens, allowing for even better views. Having crossed a few small streams and moraines (patches of dirt or rock), before lunchtime, the trail arrives at the settlement of Kyangjin.

Here, there are facilities for the production of spiritual fulfilment and cheese: a small monastery and a famous government-owned factory. The factory makes Swiss cheese from yak milk and is supported by the Swiss government. Really, it should be called nak milk, as that is the female. This is just a small, three-roomed building, but it churns out prodigious quantities of cheese in summer. The snow-covered peaks in every direction make this spot very dramatic and beautiful.

Day 7: Acclimatisation Day

This is a rest day which you will probably use to explore. The glaciers of Langtang Lirung are sensational. You could even summit Kyangjin Ri (14,209 feet), known locally as Brana Chumbo, which is immediately behind the village and provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Langtang peaks.

Day 8: Retrace route to Langtang

You will retrace your route towards Langtang village. The trail heads is down hill through forest following the river. You pass through ethnic Tamang settlements who strictly follow religious and cultural  practices similar to that of the Tibetans.

Day 9: Return to  Syabrubesi

You will continue the return journey, finishing at Syabrubesi. This is roughly a 5-hour walk and the easy trail goes mostly downhill through lush green vegetation.

Langtang Valley Trek FAQ

How much does the langtang valley trek cost.

Costs for the Langtang Valley trek range from $1000 on the low-end to $2,000 on the top-end.  Check out our list of the best trekking companies in Nepal .

Are permits required for the Langtang Valley trek?

You don't need a permit for the Langtang Valley Trek. However, you must be registered with the Trekkers Information Management system (TIMS for short) in order to do the trek. An entry fee of $30 is charged by the Langang National Park.

When is the best time to trek the Langtang Valley?

The best time to trek the Langtang Valley is Autumn, from mid-September to mid-December, and Spring, from March to May. These are considered the best seasons to hike in Nepal . when the sun is out during the day, but the nights are cold. Winter is also a possibility, if you don’t mind the cold.

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Langtang Valley trek? 

Yes, altitude sickness is a risk because the Langtang Valley trek ascends to some high-altitude points. At its highest point, Tserko Ri, you will reach an altitude of 5,000 meters (16,347 feet). There are steep section on this trek where you will ascend fairly quickly.

Because of this, it is important to have a good understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises to high altitude. We recommend you read our detailed article on  Altitude Sickness and Acclimatisation .

How difficult is the Langtang Valley trek?

The Langtang Valley Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. There are steep sections that require a good level of fitness; however, the trek is relatively short and most people with a good attitude and high level of determination should be okay.

What gear do I need for the Langtang Valley trek?

Trekking the Langtang Valley requires a number of essential pieces of trekking gear and equipment. It is a long and moderately difficult trek, exposing you to a range of altitudes where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between night and day.

Much of your gear can be rented or bought in Kathmandu, but we strongly suggest bringing the most important pieces of gear and equipment with you.

To help you plan and prepare for your trek, we recommend reading our hiking packing list . Also, dont forget to take out good travel insurance for Nepal .

Are there any recommended guidebooks for the Langtang Valley trek? 

Yes, there are several recommended guidebooks for the Langtang Valley trek. The Langtang Valley trek appears in many guidebooks which you use before and during your trip. 

We highly recommend  A Trekking Guide to Langtang: Gosainkund, Helambu and Tamang Heritage Trail by Sian Pritchard-Jones and Bob Gibbons. If this guidebook isn’t available, then Trekking the Tamang Heritage Trail of Nepal by Alonzo Lucius Lyons is very good too.

Continue browsing

See more information on  Nepal . Or check out these other Nepal hiking articles:

• Short Nepal Trails
• Kala Patthar Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Hike
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Trekking the Khumbu Valley
• Island Peak Hiking Guide
• Hiking to Rara Lake
• Limi Valley Trek
• Rolwaling Trekking Guide
• Panchase Hike
• Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
• Trekking the Jomsom Muktinath
• Hiking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp
• Mera Peak Trek
• Helambu Hiking Trail
• Mustang Circuit Trek
• Gokyo Lakes Hike
• Trekking to Makalu Base Camp
• Gosainkunda Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• The Royal Trek

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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LANGTANG VALLEY TREK GUIDE

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

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THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE

In this guide we cover everything you need to know about the Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal. This includes a suggested itinerary, a route map, and a GPX download, as well as practical information about accommodation, costs, what to pack, independent vs. guided treks, and more. Along with this written guide, we also share ‘silent hiking’ films of the trail and a video guide to trekking the Langtang Valley. For detailed trail notes, check out our Langtang Valley Trekking Route Guide .

With lush forests and snow-capped peaks, the chance to reach nearly 5000 m without crossing a high mountain pass, and an opportunity to experience the culture of the Tibetan-speaking Tamang people, there are many things that appeal about a Langtang Valley trek. What’s more, the area is relatively close to Kathmandu, the transport options make it easily accessible, and the trek itself is not too long. Read on to discover more and start planning your own Langtang Valley trek.

TREK OVERVIEW LANGTANG TREK VIDEOS MAP & GPX DOWNLOAD ELEVATION PROFILE & 3D MAP SUGGESTED LANGTANG ITINERARY TREKKING SEASONS GETTING TO LANGTANG VALLEY LANGTANG VALLEY PERMITS TREKKING INDEPENDENTLY TREKKING WITH A GUIDE RECOMMENDED TREK AGENCY ACCOMMODATION ON THE TREK FOOD ON THE LANGTANG TREK SAFE DRINKING WATER WIFI/PHONE SIGNAL/CHARGING LANGTANG TREK COST & BUDGET WHAT TO PACK FOR THE TREK ALTITUDE AWARENESS TRAVEL INSURANCE ADD-ON TREKS GETTING TO NEPAL NEPAL TOURIST VISAS WHERE TO STAY IN KATHMANDU MAPS, GUIDEBOOKS, & APPS

TREK OVERVIEW LANGTANG TREK VIDEOS MAP & GPX DOWNLOAD ELEVATION PROFILE & 3D MAP SUGGESTED ITINERARY TREKKING SEASONS GETTING TO LANGTANG VALLEY LANGTANG VALLEY PERMITS TREKKING INDEPENDENTLY TREKKING WITH A GUIDE RECOMMENDED TREK AGENCY ACCOMMODATION ON THE TREK FOOD ON THE LANGTANG TREK SAFE DRINKING WATER WIFI/PHONE/CHARGING LANGTANG TREK COST WHAT TO PACK FOR THE TREK ALTITUDE AWARENESS TRAVEL INSURANCE ADD-ON TREKS GETTING TO NEPAL NEPAL TOURIST VISAS WHERE TO STAY IN KATHMANDU MAPS, GUIDEBOOKS, & APPS

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links – if you purchase a product or service via these links, we may earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you . This helps offset the cost of running this blog and keeps us travelling so that we can continue to produce great content for you. We greatly appreciate your support!*

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK OVERVIEW

• DISTANCE | 60 – 75 km (depending on day hikes)
• DURATION | 6 – 8 days (+ 2 days travel to/from Kathmandu)
• START/END | Syabrubesi (accessible by public bus (8+ hours) or private jeep (6 – 7 hours) from Kathmandu)
• PERMITS REQUIRED | Langtang National Park Fee 3000 NPR (payable at checkpoint near start of trek), TIMS NOT Required
• TREKKING SEASON | Best Seasons: Mid-March to April, October to Mid-November; Shoulder Seasons: Early-March, May, September, Mid-November to December; Avoid: June to August, January to February
• TREK DIFFICULTY | Moderate
• ELEVATION GAIN/LOSS |   +/- 3420 metres (to Kyanjin Gompa only), +/- 5300 metres (including day hikes)
• MAX ALTITUDE | 3865 m at Kyanjin Gompa, 4965 m if trekking to Tsergo Ri
• GUIDE MANDATORY | Debatable: From April 1st 2023, trekking guides became mandatory for all foreign trekkers in Nepal, however the rule isn’t necessarily being enforced on the ground
• ACCOMMODATION | Teahouses/Guesthouses in villages along the trail
• TREK COST | $ 24 – 100 USD per person, per day (budget independent trekker to fully inclusive package)
• ADD-ON TREKS | Gosainkunda , Tamang Heritage Trail, climbing Yala Peak
• RECOMMENDED TREKKING AGENCY | Himalayan Masters , Quote HOGG5  for 5% discount

DISTANCE 60 -75 km

DURATION 6 – 8 days (+ 2 days travel to/from Kathmandu)

START/END Syabrubesi (accessible by public bus (8+ hours) or private jeep (6 – 7 hours) from Kathmandu)

PERMITS REQUIRED Langtang National Park Fee 3000 NPR (payable at checkpoint near start of trek), TIMS NOT Required

TREKKING SEASON Best Seasons Mid-March to April October to Mid-November Shoulder Seasons Early-March, May, September Mid-November to December Avoid June to August January to February

TREK DIFFICULTY Moderate

ELEVATION GAIN/LOSS +/- 3420 metres (to Kyanjin Gompa only) +/- 5300 metres (including day hikes)

MAX ALTITUDE 3880 m at Kyanjin Gompa 4965 m if trekking to Tsergo Ri

GUIDE MANDATORY Debatable: From April 1st 2023, trekking guides became mandatory for all foreign trekkers in Nepal, however the rule isn’t necessarily being enforced on the ground

ACCOMMODATION Teahouses/Guesthouses in villages along the trail

TREK COST $24 – 100 USD per person, per day (budget independent trekker to fully inclusive package)

ADD-ON TREKS Gosainkunda , Tamang Heritage Trail, climbing Yala Peak

OUR RECOMMENDED TREKKING AGENCY Himalayan Masters , Quote HOGG5  for 5% discount

LANGTANG VALLEY FILM & VIDEO GUIDE

Our ambient ‘silent hiking’ style films are perfect for getting a sense of the Langtang Valley trek. Our indepth video guide works well as a companion piece to this written guide and includes much more discussion of our own experience on the trek.

Watch the behind the scenes version of our Langtang Valley trek on Instagram stories

Watch the behind the scenes version of our langtang valley trek on instagram stories .

Langtang Valley Trek Stories

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK MAP & GPX DOWNLOAD

Langtang valley trek //.

MAP & GPX DOWNLOAD

We have created a detailed Langtang Valley trekking map to accompany this guide. The trekking route between Syabrubesi and Kyanjin Gompa, the day hiking routes to Kyanjin Ri and Tsergo Ri, and the stats for each section are all marked on the map. Villages and tea shops are also marked, as well as key sights and practical info such as checkpoints. Guesthouses as per our own trek itinerary are marked, including prices and services, phone numbers, and a copy of the menu. Photos are included with almost every pin. You can use the digital map online, or download it for offline use with a mapping app such as Organic Maps, Maps.me or Gaia GPS. This is very helpful for navigation assistance on the trail and allows you to quickly pinpoint key places and services along the way and calculate distance and elevation differences between destinations. Note that while we’ve tried to be as accurate as possible when recording and mapping the route, changes on the ground are inevitable, and this map should not be solely relied upon for navigation. 

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK ELEVATION PROFILE

ELEVATION PROFILE

The image below shows the elevation profile of our own route for the Langtang Valley trek, going via Sherpagaon on the way up, including the day hikes to Kyanjin Ri (4586 m) and Tsergo Ri (4965 m), and ending at the Gosainkunda turn-off on the way down.  Elevation is displayed in metres and distance in kilometres.

3D ROUTE MAP

Watch our 3D relief map video of the route to visualise the geography of the Langtang Valley and get a sense of the trek.

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK ITINERARY

In the table below, we have outlined what we feel is an ideal Langtang Valley trek itinerary. This is an 8 day trek starting and ending in Syabrubesi, plus 2 days travel to and from Kathmandu.

Many Langtang Valley trek itineraries offered by trekking agencies, or outlined in other blog posts online, suggest a 6 day trek plus 2 travel days. Although that is certainly possible, when you consider factors like altitude and acclimatisation, day hikes, and alternative routes, we feel an 8 day trekking itinerary is better and will outline the reasons for this below.

The times given for each day are an average and don’t include time for lunch or other significant stops, such as tea/coffee breaks. You may of course be faster or slower than these times, depending on a variety of factors such as your pace, desire to take photos, and interest in things along the way.

If viewing on a mobile device or tablet, scroll to the right to see the full table or flip your screen to landscape mode.

*You could stop earlier at Ghodatabela (~ 3000 m) although the accommodation is more basic, or continue to Langtang if you are already acclimatised (which will save you a day)

** You could continue 30 minutes to Rimche for better views

ALTITUDE AND ACCLIMATISATION

Most Langtang Valley trek itineraries suggest trekking from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel on Day 1 (1500 m to 2485 m), from Lama Hotel to Langtang or Mundu on Day 2 (2485 m to 3450 m), and then from Langtang or Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa on Day 3 (3450 m to 3865 m). From Kyanjin Gompa, two of the absolute highlights of the Langtang Valley trek are the day hikes to Kyanjin Ri (4586 m) and Tsergo Ri (4965 m) on Days 4 and 5.

  If you are already acclimatised (ie. you have been at altitudes of 3500 m + within the previous week), then we don’t see a problem with this itinerary. However, if you are not yet acclimatised, we feel the speed of ascent to 3500 m and above puts hikers at an unnecessary risk of experiencing adverse reactions to altitude.

Ascending too quickly to Langtang village (3450 m) and above can put trekkers at risk of experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness

Everybody reacts to altitude differently. There’s every chance that you may feel fine by the time you reach Langtang or Kyanjin Gompa, but there’s also a chance that you may be suffering from headaches, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, or other symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) because the speed of ascent has been too fast for your body to properly acclimatise. At best, if your symptoms are relatively mild, you may feel pretty miserable and too unwell to tackle the day hikes to Kyanjin Ri and/or Tsergo Ri, missing out on some of the best views and experiences on the Langtang Valley trek. And at worst, you could put yourself at risk of developing HAPE or HACE, both life-threatening conditions.

Therefore, we feel that it is more sensible to follow medical advice and aim to sleep no more than 300 – 500 metres higher than the previous day when at altitudes of 2500 m and above . As such, our suggested itinerary includes a night at Thangshyap (3190 m) on Day 2 , before ascending to Langtang at 3450 m on Day 3, and finally Kyangjin Gompa at 3865 m on Day 4. This is the itinerary we followed and I (Kim) suffered almost no symptoms of AMS during the trek, having suffered from AMS at similar altitudes in the past when ascending more rapidly.

DAY HIKES TO KYANJIN RI AND TSERGO RI

Many Langtang Valley trek itineraries include a 2 night stay at Kyanjin Gompa , however we would recommend staying 3 nights instead. This gives you plenty of time to rest and further acclimatise on the day you arrive at Kyanjin Gompa, then do the day hike to Kyanjin Ri the following morning, and the day hike to Tsergo Ri the morning after that.

These two day hikes are absolute highlights of the trek. By planning morning ascents you’ll give yourself the best possibility of clear views, and by spreading them out over two days you will be less rushed and better acclimatised.

Climbing Tsergo Ri in the morning gives you the best chance of having clear mountain views

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES ON THE WAY UP & DOWN THE LANGTANG VALLEY

The Langtang Valley trek is largely an up and down the valley route, following the same trail from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gompa and back again. Between Rimche and Kyanjin Gompa there is no way to avoid this, however between Syabrubesi and Rimche there is an option to take an alternative route on the way up and/or down , which we think is far more interesting than simply repeating the same trail.

Most Langtang Valley trek itineraries suggest hiking from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel on Day 1, and repeating this route in reverse on Day 6. The route follows the Langtang Khola (River), going via Bamboo. However, for a change of scenery and chance to visit more local villages in the region, we’d suggest taking an alternative route from Syabrubesi to Sherpagaon on Day 1.

Instead of climbing gradually up the valley and ending the day with a steep climb to Rimche or Lama Hotel, you’ll start the day with a steep climb up through forest to Khangjim and Surka. From here you’ll follow a gently undulating trail for the rest of the day, working your way around the hillside through attractive forest sections and across open areas with fantastic views. Sherpagaon itself is a lovely village with a mix of guesthouses and local homes, and the views from here are great. The following morning it takes less than 1.5 hours to trek to Rimche (again with fantastic views), where you’ll rejoin the classic Langtang Valley trekking route.

High above the Langtang Valley floor, Sherpagaon (2563 m) has impressive views of the surrounding mountains

Sherpagaon (2563 m) has impressive views of the surrounding mountains from its position high above the Langtang Valley floor

If for whatever reason you would prefer not to trek the alternative route to Sherpagaon on Day 1, we would at least suggest overnighting at Rimche instead of Lama Hotel. The views from Rimche are much better than at Lama Hotel (a riverside location tucked into a narrow valley), plus it’s more interesting to stay at different places on the way up and down the valley.

If combining the Langtang Valley trek with the Tamang Heritage Trail, note that you’ll trek via Sherpagaon anyway.

OUR RECOMMENDED TREKKING AGENCY

We partnered with  Himalayan Masters for our Langtang Valley, Gosainkunda, and Everest Three Passes treks, and found them to be professional and committed to a high level of service

To enquire about booking your own trek, get in touch via email at [email protected] and mention the code HOGG5 to get a 5% discount off the cost of your trip

LANGTANG VALLEY TREKKING SEASON

TREKKING SEASON

Like many treks in Nepal , the peak seasons for trekking in the Langtang Valley are Mid-March to April and October to Mid-November . While nothing is guaranteed, as weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable in Nepal and across the world, these months typically offer the best chance of clear skies mixed with warmer temperatures. In autumn, expect less wind and higher temperatures, while in late March and April, blooming rhododendrons and other spring flowers are a beautiful sight at lower elevations.

Clear, sunrise mountain views in late March from the rooftop terrace of the Holyland Guesthouse in Kyanjin Gompa (3865 m)

The shoulder seasons of Early-March and Mid-November to December can be quieter and colder, typically with clear weather, especially in December. In late May and early September there is a higher chance of early or lingering monsoon rains and cloudy skies.

The summer months of June, July, and August coincide with the monsoon season . Trekking during this period means lots of walking in rain, poor visibility with clouds obscuring the surrounding mountains, muddy trails, and leeches. The landscape is lush and green though, and some rare mushrooms and colourful wildflowers can be spotted on the hillsides. Many guesthouses close during this time, although there is usually at least one open in each settlement.

The winter months of January and February are considered too cold by most to trek, and as is the case during the summer monsoon, many guesthouses close for these two months. If you don’t mind cold mornings and evenings, December is a good option for clear skies and sunny days.

HOW TO GET TO/FROM THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK TRAILHEAD

HOW TO GET TO AND FROM THE TRAILHEAD

Syabrubesi is the trailhead for the Langtang Valley trek , a small town approximately 115 km north of Kathmandu. You can get there by public bus or private jeep and the journey takes around 5.5 – 9 hours depending on your mode of transport. The road is narrow and twisting at points with occasional steep drop-offs, and includes some bumpy sections on rough non-tarmac roads.

BUS FROM KATHMANDU TO SYABRUBESI

Buses from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi depart from Machhapokhari (near the New Bus Park / Gongabu Bus Park) between 6am – 8am every day. They depart from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu between approximately 6am – 7am. Tickets cost 1000 NPR per person, one way. The journey takes around 8 – 9 hours, although it’s possible it can take longer depending on road conditions that day. In Kathmandu, you can arrive early and purchase a ticket on the same day, or head to the bus stop the day before to buy your ticket. In Syabrubesi, you can ask your guesthouse owner to book your seat for the following morning.

A typical bus plying the route between Kathmandu and Syabrubesi

The bus will stop a couple of times during the journey for food and a toilet break. It’s a pretty uncomfortable trip, with no air conditioning, dust and fumes blowing in the windows, and often music blasting through the speakers for hours on end. Drivers can tear along the road at high speed, which can be potentially dangerous and a little scary.

You can get a taxi between Thamel (or elsewhere in Kathmandu) and Machhapokhari for about 500 NPR. If you hail a taxi on the street, be sure to agree the price with your taxi driver at the start. You can also use a taxi app such as Pathao ( iOS / Android ).

PRIVATE JEEP FROM KATHMANDU TO SYABRUBESI

A private jeep from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi costs approximately $170 one way. It can seat up to 7 people plus a guide and driver (with your bags strapped to the roof). The price can be shared between all passengers. The route is the same as by bus, but the journey time is usually significantly less at around 5.5 – 7 hours, depending on the road conditions that day. You will likely stop for lunch and a toilet break along the way, and you have more flexibility to stop for photos, etc, whenever you like.

A private tourist jeep enroute to Syabrubesi

If you are organising your Langtang Valley trek via a trekking agency, they will be able to organise a private jeep for you. Otherwise, you can ask at your hotel or at local travel agencies. A private jeep will pick you up at your accommodation, offering door-to-door service.

It is much more comfortable to travel by private jeep than bus, and safer too.

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Langtang valley trek permits and fees.

TREKKING PERMITS & FEES

To trek in the Langtang Valley you will need to pay the Langtang National Park entrance fee , which is 3000 NPR (1500 NPR for SAARC nationals, 100 NPR for Nepalis). You can pay it on the way to Syabrubesi, at the NP entrance shortly before Dhunche, where all public and private transport have to make a stop. You need your passport and the fee in cash, in Nepalese rupees (NPR). Be sure to hold onto your receipt as you need to show it at checkpoints along the route.

Formerly, getting a TIMS card was also necessary, but this hasn’t been the case for a couple of years and when we trekked in March 2023, it was not required. Whether this situation will continue, we can’t say, but since 1 April 2023 a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card can only be obtained by a representative of a registered trekking agency. 

Your bag will be searched at the same checkpoint where your NP permit is issued, and the police will specifically ask if you have a drone with you. These are not permitted, unless you have the relevant permission and documents proving it.

TREKKING THE LANGTANG VALLEY INDEPENDENTLY

TREKKING INDEPENDENTLY

The Langtang Valley is not a restricted area, and as such, a guide (historically) has not been mandatory. However, the Nepal Tourism Board announced on March 9 2023 that as of April 1 2023, all international trekkers in Nepal are required to hire a licenced trekking guide and obtain the TIMS card through an authorised trekking agency registered with the government of Nepal. This abrupt announcement led to much confusion and debate about where such a rule applies, and whether it is being enforced on the ground.

A common interpretation of the rule is that trekking routes where TIMS is not required are exempt from the mandatory guide rule. The Langtang Valley falls under this category (along with treks in the Khumbu region, such as Everest Base Camp or Everest Three Passes).

From our own experience trekking in Nepal in March and April 2023, we can confirm that independent trekkers are still trekking in the Langtang Valley without guides. They are passing through police and national park checkpoints without any problems. However, the situation can of course change, so it’s best to seek out on-the-trail updates from independent trekkers on active Facebook groups, forums, etc.

PROS AND CONS OF INDEPENDENT TREKKING

Assuming the situation stays the same, and hikers continue to be able to trek independently in the Langtang Valley, here are a few thoughts on the pros and cons of independent trekking here.

This is the cheapest way to trek in the Langtang Valley. You won’t have to pay for anything extra beyond your daily food and accommodation costs, permit fee, and transport to/from the trailhead.

You have complete freedom and flexibility. You can choose how long to trek for each day, what route to take and where to stay. If you like somewhere, you can choose to stay an extra day without having to consult anyone else or consider their needs.

It is easier to enjoy a bit of ‘alone time’ on the trail. If you are trekking with a guide or group it can be harder or more awkward to branch out and enjoy walking alone with your thoughts.

You’ll likely have more interaction with locals. If you are trekking with a guide it is common practice for them to deal with everything at your guesthouse and act as a go-between. It’s normal for your guide to take your order, bring out your food, and settle up the bill on your behalf, which means you may have little interaction with the owner or staff yourself. But, you’ll be doing all that by yourself if you trek independently.

With freedom and flexibility comes more responsibility and the need to do more research, preparation and daily planning. You will need to spend time organising things both on and off the trail. You will need to sort out all the logistics like your permit, transport, and accommodation by yourself, and be confident in your route planning and navigation. 

You are more vulnerable in an emergency situation or if you get sick. This is especially true if you are trekking solo. You should prepare as best you can with a comprehensive medical kit, emergency contact numbers at the ready, and ideally an emergency communication device like the InReach Explorer . 

In peak trekking season you may find it harder to get a room. Many guesthouses prefer bigger groups with organised companies and will give preference to them over independent solo trekkers or those in small groups. Guides with existing local contacts often call ahead to book rooms, something which isn’t as easy for independent trekkers with no personal contacts. 

You miss out on all the insights a knowledgeable, English speaking guide can offer. Your understanding of the region, and Nepal in general, is likely to be much broader after spending a week or more in the company of a Nepali guide rather than going it alone.

This is the cheapest way to trek in the Langtang Valley. You won’t have to pay for anything extra beyond your daily food and accommodation costs, permit fee, and transport to/from the trailhead. 

You have complete freedom and flexibility. You can choose how long to trek for each day, what route to take and where to stay. If you like somewhere, you can choose to stay an extra day without having to consult anyone else or consider their needs. 

It is easier to enjoy a bit of ‘alone time’ on the trail. If you are trekking with a guide or group it can be harder or more awkward to branch out and enjoy walking alone with your thoughts. 

TREKKING THE LANGTANG VALLEY WITH A GUIDE (AND PORTER)

TREKKING WITH A GUIDE (AND PORTER)

Many people choose to trek the Langtang Valley with a guide, and often with a porter too. Whether you’re an inexperienced or seasoned trekker, this is a great option. Not only can an experienced guide be invaluable when it comes to your safety, a guide can also enrich your experience on the trail, giving you the opportunity to learn much more about the history, culture, and geography of the land. Hiring a porter to carry your bag will put less strain on your body, making your trek much easier and perhaps allowing you to better enjoy the surroundings. Hiring a guide and/or porter also provides jobs and supports the trekking tourism economy.

If you are trekking the Langtang Valley with a guide you will usually meet them in Kathmandu prior to your trek, travel to the trailhead together, and then return to Kathmandu together at the end. If you’re trekking with a porter, they may also travel with you from Kathmandu, or you may meet them locally at the start of the trek.

A guide can help with many practical things and also provide insight into local culture and customs

A guide can help with many practical things, but also provide insight into local culture and customs

During your trek a guide will stick with you on the trail, suggest the best spots to stop for lunch, and take you to their recommended overnight accommodation. At busy times, they may call ahead and pre-book a room for you. They will act as your go-between at each guesthouse, arranging your room, taking your food orders, and settling the bill. It’s normal for a guide to run through the following day’s itinerary each evening, giving you an overview of the trail, trekking time, and any other relevant information. Your guide will always be around at your guesthouse, but they won’t stick by you constantly. You will have plenty of freedom to hang out in your room or the dining room, read your book, chat with other guests, play cards, etc. Guides sleep and eat in the same guesthouse as you, always in a separate room.

Porters often trek at their own pace, meaning you won’t always be with them on the trail. It’s common for you to pack your porter bag before breakfast and have it ready for them, and for your bag to already be in your room when you arrive at your guesthouse for the evening. In the Langtang Valley, porters will sleep and eat at the same guesthouse as you, again in a separate room.

HOW TO ORGANISE A LANGTANG VALLEY TREKKING GUIDE (AND PORTER)

The easiest way to arrange a trekking guide is via a trekking agency . You can book an inclusive Langtang Valley trekking package which covers your transport, permit, guide (and porter), accommodation costs, and three meals a day. Alternatively, you can pay for a guide (and porter) only, and then pay-as-you-go for your accommodation, food, transport, and permit.

Choosing a trekking agency is often the trickiest part as there are thousands of registered agencies in Nepal and the quality of service can vary greatly between them. Many trekkers will choose a guide or agency based on a trusted recommendation from a friend or fellow trekker, and this is a good approach. An alternative option is to visit a number of trekking agencies in person when you arrive in Thamel (Kathmandu) to get a feel for a company that you like, or to contact agencies online in advance.

 Having trekked with three different agencies and three different guides on three visits to Nepal, our best experience has been with Himalayan Masters . We partnered with them for our Langtang Gosainkunda and Everest Three Passes treks, and found them to be professional, committed to a high level of service, and competitively priced.

We really appreciate the fact that Sandip, the agency owner, is super flexible when it comes to itinerary amendments that don’t just follow the norm (eg. including Sherpagaon and Thangshyap). He’s also a problem solver and what we’d call a real ‘go-getter’, a trait that’s highly valuable to his clients, whether he’s retrieving a swallowed bank card from a Thamel ATM in record time or fixing logistical issues when things go wrong last minute at 2am (both real life examples experienced by us or fellow Himalayan Masters clients we met on the trail!).

We’d also highly recommend our Himalayan Masters guide, Govinda Rai, who we spent over a month trekking with in Nepal. He is very professional, taking care of everything you would expect from a guide, but also tailoring his suggestions and advice specifically to his clients, resulting in a more enjoyable trekking experience overall. We quickly came to trust his choices for lunch stops and accommodation as we felt they were always among the best options available. His knowledge of the trail was excellent, and his advice on trekking times for each day (based on our own pace) was spot-on, making it easier for us to plan our itinerary and make on-the-go changes as we saw fit. And on a personal level, we found Govinda to be easy-going, friendly, and an all-round great person to spend time with.

Govinda, o ur Himalayan Masters guide, enjoying a masala tea break at Kyanjin Ri (4586 m)

Govinda, our Himalayan Masters guide, enjoying a masala tea break at Kyanjin Ri (4586 m)

We also met a number of other Himalayan Masters guides while out on the trail, including Dipak who we chatted with lots, as our Langtang Valley trek itinerary coincided for three nights at the same guesthouses. From our interactions with Dipak, and positive feedback shared over dining room chats with his two trekking clients, we’re confident that Himalayan Masters are working with great guides across the board.

To  discuss your Langtang Valley trek, get in touch with Himalayan Masters at [email protected] , and you’ll get a 5% discount off your trip cost by using our code HOGG5 .

CHALLENGE YOURSELF ON THE EVEREST THREE PASSES TREK

PLAN YOUR TREK WITH OUR GUIDE

TRAIL NOTES AND OTHER USEFUL INFO

ACCOMMODATION ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

Accommodation.

Accommodation on the Langtang Valley trek is in the form of guesthouses, also known as teahouses or lodges. These can be found regularly along the trail in local villages (Langtang/Kyanjin Gompa), in guesthouse only settlements (Lama Hotel/Bamboo), and occasionally as stand alone guesthouses such as Riverside (at Gumnachok). In general, the standard of accommodation in the Langtang Valley is quite high, as many of the guesthouses have been newly built following the devastating earthquake of 2015. The main exception is Lama Hotel, where all the guesthouses are old and the facilities are more basic. The guesthouses at Rimche, Gumnachok, and Ghodatabela are also more basic.

There are many guesthouses at Kyanjin Gompa

Guesthouses provide both accommodation and meals, and you are expected to eat dinner and breakfast at the guesthouse you sleep at. Lunch is usually at a different guesthouse along the trail, unless you arrive early at your destination for the day.

Rooms are basic, but comfortable. They usually have two single beds, although some places will have rooms sleeping three, or just one. Beds always have a sheet-covered mattress, a pillow with a pillowcase, and a blanket. We have seen plenty of bedding hanging out to dry which would suggest sheets, pillowcases, and blankets do get washed, however there is no guarantee that they will be freshly laundered for each guest. Personally, we always trek with our own sleeping bag and silk liner, using the blanket over our sleeping bag for extra warmth at higher altitudes.

There is always a light in the room, powered by mains electricity or solar. Often there is a small table, some hooks on the wall, and a bin, and there is almost always a window with curtains. Some guesthouses will have charging sockets in the room, but this is not always the case. There is no heating in guesthouse rooms, only ever in the main dining room.

A better-than-average room in the Langtang Valley, this one at the Holyland Guesthouse, Kyanjin Gompa

TOILETS AND SHOWERS

There are often rooms with attached bathrooms (ensuite) available, but shared bathrooms are also common. If you have an attached bathroom this will usually have a toilet, sink (not always), and shower. Shared bathroom facilities usually consist of separate toilets and shower rooms, with a sink outside, although sometimes there is no dedicated sink and you’ll need to wash your hands/brush your teeth at an outdoor tap.

Toilets may be sit-down or squat style. Toilet paper is never provided , so you’ll need to pack your own and buy more as you go. Do not flush toilet paper down the toilet, always put it in the bin next to the toilet (this may be an old tin can, a cardboard box, a plastic container, or such like.) Sit-down toilets will likely have an automatic flush, although at higher altitudes in cold weather, the pipes can freeze and you may need to flush the toilet using a bucket of water. Squat toilets never have an automatic flush; you always need to flush using the scoop and bucket of water provided.

Showers are generally solar heated, although sometimes a gas shower is available (usually for a fee). If neither are available, guesthouses can provide a bucket of hot water for a fee, which you can use to wash.

DINING ROOM

Every guesthouse has a dining room where you can eat your meals, drink tea, and hang out. There are usually tables and fixed benches around the perimeter of the room, with plenty of movable chairs too. Expect to see a display cabinet of snacks and sundries for sale (eg. chocolate bars, biscuits, Pringles, toilet paper, soft drinks), and often a Buddhist prayer altar, too. The dining room is the only room with a stove, usually lit in the late afternoon/early evening as the sun goes down and it starts to get cold, making it nice and cosy.

A traditional and typical teahouse/guesthouse dining room, complete with stove, this one at the Ganesh View Hotel, Rimche

A typical, traditional teahouse/guesthouse dining room, complete with stove, this one at the Ganesh View Hotel, Rimche

The kitchen is usually pretty cosy too, as most food is cooked over a wood fire stove. In smaller guesthouses, or when it’s not too busy, you might be invited to sit in the kitchen to stay warm (often at breakfast when the dining room is still cold).

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FOOD ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

FOOD AND DRINKS

Every guesthouse serves meals and you are expected to eat dinner and breakfast at the guesthouse you are sleeping at, otherwise the cost of the room will be much higher. There are also a few bakeries, coffee shops, and tea shops along the route where you can pop in for treats.

Every guesthouse has a menu, and the options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at each are almost identical. Prices tend to increase the higher you go as food and fuel needs to be transported further via porters or pack mules, resulting in additional costs.

LANGTANG VALLEY SAMPLE MENU

Click into the slider to see a typical example of a menu in the Langtang Valley. This menu is from Summit Guesthouse in Thangshyap (3190 m) and the prices are similar to those in both Langtang (3450 m) and Kyanjin Gompa (3865 m).

Breakfast dishes include porridge, muesli, eggs, Tibetan bread (a kind of fried dough), chapati (flat, unleavened bread), and pancakes . Honey, jam, peanut butter, apples, chocolate sauce, and yak cheese are common accompaniments on offer.

Breakfast options are generally priced between 300 – 600 NPR (approx $2 – $5 USD) , depending on location and item.

LUNCH AND DINNER

Dal Bhat is a ubiquitous Nepali meal , eaten twice a day by many locals. It consists of plain rice, a lentil soup, veggie curry, papad (poppadom), and some sort of pickle. Depending on the veggies available, you may also get saag (spinach) or something similar. Everything is served on a big plate, and you can get free refills of each item (apart from the papad!).

There are always free refills of rice, dal and curry with  Dal Bhat , giving rise to the familiar catchphrase ‘Dal Bhat power 24 hour’

With Dal Bhat , t here are always free refills of at least the rice, dal and curry, giving rise to the familiar catchphrase, ‘Dal Bhat power 24 hour’

Other options include various soups (some fresh, some from a packet), basic pasta dishes (usually fried), fried rice, fried noodles, boiled or fried potatoes, and momos (steamed or fried dumplings). Ingredients more or less revolve around eggs, cheese, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, onion, garlic, and tinned tuna.

 Meal options are generally priced between 350 – 700 NPR (approx $3 – $6 USD) , depending on location and item.

Various hot drinks include black/green/milk/masala/mint/ginger lemon honey tea, instant coffee, and hot chocolate . You can order a single cup or a small/medium/large thermos (called ‘pots’). Cups or pots of hot water are also available.

Seabuckthorn juice is commonly available, served either hot or cold. Seabuckthorn grows locally and is harvested and turned into juice in autumn, making this the best season to try it, although it is often still available in spring.

Soft drinks like Coke, Fanta, and Sprite are available to buy at each guesthouse shop, along with bottled water (although we recommend purifying tap water to drink instead of buying bottled water). You can also buy beer (bottles/cans) and small bottles of Khukuri rum , however it’s best to avoid alcohol at higher altitudes as this dehydrates you and makes acclimatisation more difficult.

Hot drinks are on average about 150 NPR per cup ($1 USD) , or up to 1500 – 2000 NPR per large pot ($11 – $15 USD). Soft drinks are about 400 NPR ($3 USD), bottled water is about 350 NPR ($2.5 USD) , and beer is about 800 NPR ($6 USD) .

SNACKS AND DESSERTS

You can buy chocolate bars, biscuits, and Pringles at most guesthouse shops. Other snacks like popcorn, papad, prawn crackers, yak cheese, or french fries are often available on the menu, and you can usually get desserts like apple, Snickers, or Mars spring rolls/fritters/pies/momos.

Prices for Snickers/Mars are around 300 NPR ($2 USD) , packets of biscuits start from 100 NPR ($.80 USD) , and Pringles are about 600 NPR ($5.5 USD) . Desserts range from 300 – 600 NPR ($2 – $5.5 USD) .

A typical example of what’s on sale in Langtang Valley guesthouses 

A fairly typical example of what’s on sale at guesthouses  in the Langtang Valley  

BAKERIES AND COFFEE SHOPS

Proper coffee machines are starting to make an appearance in the upper reaches of the Langtang Valley, brought to the area at much expense via helicopter. A real americano goes perfectly with a baked goodie such as a brownie, cinnamon bun, or slice of apple pie, available at bakeries in Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa, as well as a few other select spots. Our personal favourite is the Himalayan Bakery in Langtang, run by friendly Mapsing.

Coffee costs around 300 – 400 NPR ($2 – $3 USD) , and bakery treats are usually around 400 – 600 NPR ($3 – $5.5 USD) .

SAFE DRINKING WATER ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

SAFE DRINKING WATER

Bottled water is available to buy along the trail, however a much better option (environmentally and economically!) is to treat tap water and drink this instead. Come prepared with a refillable water bottle and/or water bladder , and a method of treating the water to make it safe for drinking.

The cheapest option is to use water purification tablets . You drop these into the water, wait about 30 minutes, then your water is safe to drink (although it can have a strange taste due to the active chemical in the tablets, ie. iodine or chlorine). You can buy these easily in supermarkets and outdoor shops in Kathmandu.

Our preferred method of water sterilisation is to use a Steripen Ultra in conjunction with a filter . The filter screws onto the top of our Nalgene water bottle and ensures any weird floaty bits or particulates are filtered out. Then we stick the Steripen into 1 litre of water for 90 seconds and the UV light sterilises the water, making it safe to drink immediately and with no change to the taste. The Steripen Ultra model is rechargeable via USB, so we can charge it using our solar panel, power bank, or an electrical socket. We always carry water purification tablets as an emergency backup, although we’ve never had to use them during 6+ years of using the Steripen.

Other common sterilisation methods include a Lifestraw , Grayl , Water-To Go , or a squeeze filter system .

THINKING ABOUT THE MANASLU CIRCUIT TOO?

DAY BY DAY ACCOUNT

WIFI, PHONE SIGNAL, AND CHARGING ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

WIFI, PHONE SIGNAL, AND CHARGING

Nepal Telecom SIM cards work best in the Langtang Valley , with a phone signal and (weak) data connection available for most of the trek up to Rimche, and between Ghodatabela and Kyanjin Gompa. NCell doesn’t get much of a phone signal or data connection beyond Syabrubesi.

WiFi is available at a number of guesthouses and bakeries along the trail, although this is often via a hotspot connection to a staff member’s phone. The more people connected, the slower the internet service. There is often a charge of 300 NPR ($2 USD) for unlimited use per stay at a guesthouse . There is no WiFi or phone signal at Lama Hotel or other locations in the narrow valley area, such as Riverside/Gumnachok. Poor weather conditions can affect WiFi connectivity, with no guarantees that it will be working 24/7. In short, you can’t rely on having an internet connection every day, however you will be able to access the internet regularly throughout the trek.

In a deep and narrow section of the Langtang Valley, there is no wifi, data connection, or phone signal at Lama Hotel

There is no wifi, data connection, or phone signal at Lama Hotel, a collection of older guesthouses in a deep, narrow section of the Langtang Valley

Many guesthouses run off solar power and free in-room charging isn’t always available, although we had sockets in our room at four out of six guesthouses on the Langtang Valley trek. At our guesthouse in Lama Hotel, solar power was so limited that charging wasn’t possible at all, and in Thangshyap, charging in the dining room was possible for a fee per device.

Generally speaking, if there are no sockets in your room then you will be able to charge in the dining room , but there may be a fee per device (eg. 150 NPR (~$1 USD) for a phone or 250 NPR (~$2 USD) for a camera battery.

It’s a good idea to pack a power bank (or two, depending on your usage), enabling you to charge your phone and batteries on-the-go. You can charge your power bank overnight in your room or in the dining room when you don’t need it. A portable solar panel can also be useful although it’s certainly not necessary and will add extra weight to your pack; not worth buying unless you will use it on other treks and outdoor adventures in the future.

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK COST AND BUDGET

COSTS AND BUDGET

The cost of your Langtang Valley trek will very much depend on how you choose to trek (whether independently or with a guide), and how many people you share the costs with . The cheapest option is to trek independently as a duo, opting to travel by public transport and sleep in rooms with shared bathroom facilities every night. Trekking with a guide and porter as part of an inclusive trek package, taking private transport, and sleeping in rooms with attached bathrooms wherever possible, will cost more.

Below is a breakdown of the average costs for a Langtang Valley trek.

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK COSTS

3000 NPR ($23 USD) taxi to bus station + public bus (per person return)

$340 USD private jeep return (cost can be shared between up to 7 people)

3000 NPR ($23 USD) per person (1500 NPR for SAARC nationals/100 NPR for Nepalis)

Twin Room w/ attached bathroom, average cost 1000 NPR ($7.50 USD) per night (for 1 or 2 people)

Twin Room w/ shared bathroom, average cost 500 NPR ($3.80 USD) per night (for 1 or 2 people)

3 x meals with hot drinks, average 2500 NPR ($19 USD) per person, per day

Extra Snacks (chocolate bars, biscuits, soft drinks) average 1000 NPR ($7.50 USD) per person, per day

For a detailed look at prices, check out the Langtang Valley menu in the food section above

WIFI/CHARGING

Average 300 NPR ($2.30 USD) per person, per day

$20 – $30 USD per day (cost can be shared with up to 5 people)

$18 – $25 USD per day (max weight carried 25 kg, cost can be shared between 2-3 people)

Expected by guides and porters

Recommended minimum amount is:

500 NPR ($4 USD) per person, per day for guides

400 NPR ($3 USD) per person, per day for porters

For larger groups, tip 10% of total tour cost to be split between all trekking staff

3000 NPR ($23 USD) per person (1500 NPR for SAARC nationals, 100 NPR for Nepalis)

In summary, the average cost for an 8 – 10 day Langtang Valley trek is about $24 per day for a budget trekker sharing a room with one person and trekking independently, with no guide or porter. A fully inclusive package is about $100 per day . Other considerations, such as trekking with a guide but no porter, buying lots of snacks, or staying in more expensive rooms, would see your daily budget falling somewhere between these two figures.

MONEY AND ATMs ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

You must bring all the cash you need from Kathmandu , in Nepalese rupees. There is an ATM in Kyanjin Gompa, but it wasn’t working when we visited and by all accounts it can’t be relied upon. It’s a good idea to have a mixture of large and small bills, as guesthouses, teashops, and bakeries don’t usually have change.

ATMs in Nepal have maximum withdrawal limits (usually 35,000 NPR), and your bank card is also likely to have a max daily withdrawal limit. Be sure to plan ahead and start withdrawing cash a few days in advance if you need to carry a lot.

PLAN YOUR TREK ON THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

WHAT TO PACK

We have outlined packing recommendations for a Nepal trek in our What To Pack For Trekking in Nepal guide, so be sure to check this out for a complete rundown. You can also download our Nepal Packing List , a useful online or printable checklist for your trek.

In a nutshell, you will need clothes suitable for trekking in warm and cold conditions and for changing into in the evening, gear to use on the trail and at your guesthouse, any relevant electronics, hygiene and first aid items, and a few essentials such as cash, emergency contact details, travel insurance documents, and your passport.

If you arrive in Nepal without the appropriate gear for trekking, you can buy and/or rent everything you need in Kathmandu (either fake or genuine items). Some trekking agencies provide gear free of charge to clients. Himalayan Masters , for example, provide sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, water bottles, purification tablets, caps, and T-Shirts, plus a duffel bag if you’re trekking with a porter.

You can leave any excess luggage at your hotel in Kathmandu and pick it up when you return from your trek.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR TREK

ALTITUDE AWARENESS

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) , also commonly referred to as Altitude Sickness, can affect people at heights of around 2500 m and above . It can affect anyone regardless of age, physical fitness, or other factors. The higher you go the less oxygen there is, and it takes time for your body to adjust. Symptoms of AMS, such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, or loss of appetite, can occur when your body is not properly acclimatised to being at a particular altitude. The highest sleeping altitude on the Langtang Valley trek is around 3865 m, at Kyanjin Gompa. The highest points you are likely to trek to are Kyanjin Ri (4586 m) and Tsergo Ri (just under 4965 m).

AMS can develop into the life-threatening conditions of HACE or HAPE, therefore symptoms of AMS should never be ignored. Read up on the causes, symptoms, and treatments for AMS prior to your trek – it could save your life or that of a fellow trekker! We have found the altitude.org website helpful, along with the PDF booklet about Travel at High Altitude (available in a number of languages) produced by Medex . A number of other medical websites, such as the NHS , are also good resources.

In a nutshell, the best way to avoid developing AMS (or the life-threatening conditions of HACE or HAPE) is to follow medically advised best-practices . This includes ascending slowly , sleeping no more than 300 – 500 metres higher than the previous night , taking a rest day for every 1000 metres ascended above 2500 m, staying well hydrated by drinking lots of water, and going on acclimatisation hikes where you can climb high but return to sleep at a lower altitude .

Getting to the top of Tsergo Ri (4965 m) is a great feeling; make sure you acclimatise properly so you can enjoy it!

Getting to the top of Tsergo Ri is a fantastic feeling; acclimatise properly beforehand so you can enjoy it!

If you develop AMS symptoms, do not ascend any higher. Rest, drink water, eat something, take paracetamol and ibuprofen to help with the pain, and assess whether your condition is worsening or improving. If it is worsening, you should descend to a lower altitude immediately. If it is improving or staying the same, rest at the same altitude for a night and allow your body more time to acclimatise before ascending.

Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a tablet that can be taken as a preventative to AMS, or as a treatment to help reduce the symptoms. It helps to speed up the acclimatisation process by causing you to breathe deeper and faster, resulting in higher oxygen concentrations in the body. It usually comes in tablets of 250 mg and the dosage is 125 mg twice a day. You can speak to a medical professional prior to your trip about taking Acetazolamide (Diamox). It is available to purchase over the counter at pharmacies in Kathmandu and trekking guides will often carry it in their first aid kit. Common side effects of taking Acetazolamide (Diamox) are tingling fingers, lips, and/or feet.

Note that many guides and locals will advise you to eat garlic soup as a remedy to AMS, but there is no medical evidence to support this notion.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR TREKKING IN NEPAL

You will have the chance to trek up to nearly 5000 m on the Langtang Valley trek. Trekking to this altitude is NOT automatically covered by most travel insurance providers , but you should be able to pay extra for an add-on ‘activity pack’ which will cover you for trekking at such heights. When choosing your travel insurance policy, it’s also wise to ensure you have Search and Rescue cover and Medical Evacuation cover included.

Always check the inclusions and exclusions of your policy carefully. Some travel insurance providers have specific exclusions or conditions when it comes to trekking in Nepal. For example, the excess for helicopter evacuation may be considerably higher for Nepal than elsewhere. This is due in part to a scam in recent years whereby trekkers who become ill are pressured or encouraged to fly out of the mountains by helicopter for medical attention, with unscrupulous guides, helicopter companies, doctors, and even some trekkers themselves, profiting from the scam.

You should also make a note of the correct procedure for medical emergencies and the insurance company emergency contact number . Add this information to your phone, and keep a written copy with you while trekking.

Whether you are currently in your home country or are already travelling, two travel insurance policy providers that can cover you for trekking in Nepal are World Nomads (for residents of 140+ countries) and True Traveller (for UK and EEA residents only). We have purchased travel insurance policies from both of these companies on numerous occasions and have found their policies to be comprehensive, and their online claims and extension processes straightforward.

If you still need to organise travel insurance, we’d suggest getting a quote from each to see which suits you best.

Click the links below to get a quote

Click the links to get a quote.

LANGTANG VALLEY ADD-ON TREKS

ADD-ON TREKS

It’s possible to combine a Langtang Valley trek with other treks in the region . One option is the Tamang Heritage Trail , a 5 to 6 day route which also starts and ends at Syabrubesi. Another option (and the add-on trek that we chose) is Gosainkunda , a high altitude lake and holy pilgrimage site. This adds 4 to 6 days onto your trek. You can start/end at Dhunche just south of Syabrubesi, or cross the Laurebina Pass and end at Kutumsang, Chisapani or Sundarijal, northeast of Kathmandu.

Read our   Complete Guide to the Gosainkunda Trek and Gosainkunda Trail Notes  to find out more and plan your own Langtang Gosainkunda trek.

Gosainkunda is a great addition to a Langtang trek, requiring an extra 4 – 6 days

It’s also possible to climb Yala Peak (5500 m) from Kyanjin Gompa. This is usually a 2 day expedition, camping at Yala Peak Base Camp on Day 1, then summiting the peak and returning to Kyanjin Gompa on Day 2.

You can organise each of these add-on treks plus a Yala Peak climb via Himalayan Masters (our recommended local trekking agency) and get 5% off your trip cost if you mention our referral code HOGG5 . Contact them by email at [email protected] .

GETTING TO NEPAL

It’s possible to travel overland from India to Nepal, crossing the border at Sunauli. The route and details are described in this post on Seat 61 .

The easiest way to get to Nepal is by flying and this is how the vast majority of people arrive. A number of different airlines operate flights to Nepal’s only international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport, on the outskirts of Kathmandu. There are very few long distance direct flights to Nepal, so you can expect to transfer somewhere in Asia or the Middle East, depending on your direction of travel.

It’s best to book your flights at the earliest possible opportunity . During busy times, such as the peak trekking seasons in spring and autumn, flights are often fully booked.

CHECK FLIGHT OPTIONS HERE

Arriving at kathmandu airport.

There is a money exchange booth next to the visa payment counter , prior to passing through immigration. There is an ATM next to the visa payment counter too, however it is unreliable. More ATMs are available after passing through immigration, but it’s best to have some cash with you just in case.

You can arrange a SIM from NCell or Nepal Telecom at arrivals , and SIM cards are also available from many small shops in Thamel.

AIRPORT TAXI

A taxi from the airport to Thamel costs approximately 800 – 1000 NPR ($6 – $7.50 USD) and takes between 15 – 30 minutes depending on traffic and the time of day. There are prepaid taxi counters at arrivals, or you can negotiate a fare with a taxi driver outside (there are no metered taxis). You need to pay cash .

PLAN YOUR TREK TO UPPER MUSTANG

NEPAL TOURIST VISAS

Tourist visas are available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and at all land border crossings that are open to foreign travellers .

While tourist visas on arrival are available for many foreign passport holders, citizens of some countries are required to get a visa prior to arrival, while those from SAARC countries can get their visa free of charge.

See the Nepal Immigration website for more details.

NEPAL VISA ON ARRIVAL

There are three Nepal tourist visas available and three things you must have to get one on arrival:

• 15 Days – 30 USD
• 30 Days – 50 USD
• 90 Days – 125 USD

WHAT YOU NEED

• A passport valid for at least six months
• At least one blank page in your passport
• The visa fee in cash (US Dollars is best)

The Nepal tourist visa on arrival process is as follows:

NEPAL VISA ON ARRIVAL PROCESS

• Go to the machines to the right as you enter the arrivals hall. You’ll need your passport details and hotel address . After filling in the required details on the screen, take a photo of the confirmation page on your phone (the printer doesn’t work).
• Next, you need to pay for your visa at the desk on the left as you enter the arrivals hall. You can show the confirmation on your phone. They want a cash payment for the visa. A sign indicates that a number of currencies are acceptable, including EUR, GBP, CAD, USD, AUD, JPY, KRW, AED, SGD, THB, MYR, CHF, DKK, QAD, SAR, CNY, HKD, KWD, and BHD. Note that they will NOT accept Bank of Scotland GBP notes, only Bank of England notes. You cannot pay in NPR. The sign says they accept card payments, but they will refuse and advise you that you must pay cash. If you insist hard enough, then they’ll send you to the desk on the far left to pay at a card machine with a $1 surcharge. The machine can be temperamental and the payment may fail to go through a few times. Also, it’s treated as a cash advance from your credit card, not a transaction, so you’ll probably be charged a cash withdrawal fee by your credit card company. After paying for your visa you’ll get a receipt .
• Take the receipt of visa payment, your passport , and boarding pass for your flight into Kathmandu to the immigration desk and get stamped through.

WHERE TO STAY IN KATHMANDU

Thamel is the main tourist hub in Kathmandu , with plenty of restaurants, bars, shops, and services aimed at trekkers. Below are our accommodation recommendations for before and after your Langtang Valley trek, with something to suit all budgets.

BUDGET KATHMANDU ACCOMMODATION

Flock Hostel | Dorm and Private rooms, modern design, close to Thamel, rooftop bar and terrace, restaurant

Zostel Kathmandu | Dorm and Private rooms, terrace, bar, restaurant, close to Thamel

Flying Yak | Dorm and Private rooms, modern design, central Thamel, bar, terrace  

Yakety Yak | Dorm and Private rooms, sleek modern design, rooftop terrace, bar, restaurant, central Thamel

Bag Packer’s Lodge | Budget private rooms with shared or private bathroom, rooftop terrace, restaurant, central Thamel location

MID-RANGE KATHMANDU ACCOMMODATION

9ine Thamel | Sleek minimalist design, central Thamel, excellent restaurant 

Nomad Hotel | Tasteful modern design, short walk from Thamel, restaurant and terrace

Oasis Kathmandu Hotel | Good location in Thamel, restaurant, generically ‘nice’ decor

Kathmandu Aagantuk Hotel | Good location in Thamel, restaurant, generically ‘nice’ decor, some rooms with balconies

Hotel Roadhouse | Stylish Modern design with heritage feel, central Thamel, popular restaurant on ground floor

HIGH-END KATHMANDU ACCOMMODATION

Dalai-La | Central Thamel, courtyard restaurant, artistic Nepali design

Hotel Thamel House | Classic heritage style with lots of brick and wood, leafy courtyard restaurant, central Thamel

Kathmandu Marriott Hotel | Sleek and minimal design, walking distance to Thamel, Nimsdai store on-site

Aloft Kathmandu |  Modern design, Thamel location

Baber Mahal Vilas – The Heritage Hotel | Heritage boutique hotel invoking a range of historic styles 

The Dwarika’s Hotel | 5* luxury heritage style hotel, half-way between airport and Thamel

SEE MORE KATHMANDU ACCOMMODATION HERE

Watch our full length langtang valley film, langtang valley maps, guidebooks and apps.

MAPS, GUIDEBOOKS & APPS

You can easily pick up trekking maps of the Langtang Valley region in Thamel, Kathmandu, with many shops selling them.

Good guidebooks for the Langtang Valley specifically, and Nepal in general, include A Trekking Guide to Langtang by Sian Pritchard-Jones and Bob Gibbons (available in paperback or kindle), Lonely Planet’s Nepal Guide , the Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya guide, and The Rough Guide to Nepal .

We would also suggest having a mapping app on your phone that can be used offline . Our favourite is Organic Maps ( iOS / Android ) (very similar to Maps.me, but with less ads) which is easy to use and has a straightforward interface. You can download maps for the area beforehand and use it offline with the GPS on your phone. Our Langtang Valley Trekking E-Map includes a KML file with the route and all relevant places pinned, which can be imported to Organic Maps or Maps.Me for easy navigation and planning.  

We also use the Gaia GPS app ( iOS / Android ) when we want more detailed topographical info, ensuring that we’ve downloaded the relevant map region online in advance. Again, our Langtang Valley Trekking E-Map includes a GPX file download of the route and key places, which can be imported directly into your app. 

THANKS FOR READING!

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

Kim and Del Hogg

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip.

Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

That’s it for our guide to the Langtang Valley trek. We hope you found it useful. If you’ve any thoughts or experiences to share, or any questions about this trek, drop them in the comments below.

ORGANISE YOUR TRIP

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Hiking The Langtang Trek in Nepal

Have you ever dreamed of hiking the Langtang Trek in Nepal? We’ve all seen those pictures of the soaring Himalayan Mountain Range but do you know what it takes to get there?

A long list of questions fill your head: When is the best time of the year to go? What should I pack? And, what about altitude sickness? 

To answer those questions, I have put together this guide to walk you through everything you need to know to plan and prepare for the Langtang Trek, one of the best treks in Nepal . 

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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE LANGTANG TREK?

The trek is situated in the Langtang Valley, nearby Kathmandu city. It is the perfect destination for someone who wishes to trek to the Himalayas but is looking for a relatively easy route with shorter walks and lower altitude.

Although it is close to the city, it is hard to tell. The rich ecosystem of the valley is well preserved. The region is a rural landscape comprising of villages, terraced farms and forests encircled with green hills with a backdrop of the white Himalayan ranges.

The route is a scenic one through dense bamboo and rose tree forests that will take you passed waterfalls and snow-capped mountain peaks. The trek is known for having one of the best views of the Annapurna Range.

The bonus that comes along with the wild scenery is the chance to get to know the unique culture of the local people. Because the region is close to the Tibetan border, their culture resembles to theirs’. As you hike through the valley, you will get a chance to learn from their practices and traditions. You will also come across several Buddhist temples and monasteries.

LANGTANG AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE

The April 2015 Nepal earthquake annihilated many homes and lives. Langtang, among all the devastated areas, was one of the most effected region. The catastrophe destroyed almost all the guesthouses and marred some parts of the trek. The region was also closed for trekking for a really long time.

The good news is that the region has been open again for trekking. Most of the guesthouses are still under reconstruction. You might have to spend your nights in tented camps if you can’t find a room in any of the few guesthouses.

The routes that were a part of the trek but were destroyed in the earthquake, have been recreated following a different path. You need not worry about the comfort. The trek is as pleasant as it always has been.

In fact, by trekking to Langtang, you will become a part of rebuilding the region. Your recreation will be a major contribution to the economical upliftment of the local residents.

BEST SEASON TO TREK TO LANGTANG VALLEY

The best seasons to trek to Langtang are autumn and spring. Autumn is from September to December and spring stretches from March to May. The weather is warm and the heat is bearable. There will be very little or no rainfall. The sky will be clear allowing you to get the best view of the mountains.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL

The trek is graded as a moderate trek. Unlike easy treks, moderate treks have longer walks and higher altitudes. The route in some places steeply ascends or descends. You will require an average level of physical fitness to enjoy the trek.

However, a moderate trek doesn’t not require as much skill, knowledge and experience as the strenuous ones. Even if it is your first trekking experience, Langtang can be a good option to start with. If you are overweight or a senior citizen, take enough rest and break up the hike into short walks.

REQUIRED PHYSICAL FITNESS

The Langtang Trek is not a strenuous trek and hence doesn’t require a high level of physical fitness. But it is advisable to be moderately fit for any kind of trek. Being fit will help you enjoy the walk without putting much stress on your body. Train your body a few weeks before the trek. Read up on how to get fit for hiking , go for a city walking tour and do some regular routine exercises.

WHERE CAN I BUY TREKKING GEAR?

You can purchase hiking equipment in your hometown or in Nepal. Nepal has several stores that sale name brand gear as well as some cheaper ones that sell trekking essentials. Most of these stores are in Thamel, which is the most popular area among travellers. You can also rent gear if you don’t want to travel with your own. 

FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION

There aren’t as many teas houses to chose from as before the earthquake but you can still find a few that serve tasty food.

The prefered meal is Dal Bhaat . The dish is filling and will fuel you up for the long walks. Rice is served with lentils, vegetable curry, salad, chutney and meat cooked in Nepali style. The best part of the meal is that you can take as many additional helping of rice and vegetables as you want without having to pay extra.

There are a variety of other dishes. For breakfast, the tea houses serve pancakes, eggs, cereal and porridge. For lunch and dinner, you can also ask for noodles, pasta, momos and various other dishes.

Since most of the guest houses were destroyed during the earthquake, only a few of them are in good condition to accommodate trekkers. You will be either sleeping in tented camps or tea houses depending upon the availability of the rooms.

Do not expect luxurious home stays. The tea houses are simple, comfortable and cozy. In some, you might have to share the restroom which have a squat toilet .

HEALTH CONCERNS

Before trekking, it is always advisable to consult a doctor to check if you are physically healthy enough for high altitudes. But, despite of how fit you may be, there is no guarantee that you won’t fall victim of altitude sickness. There are many symptoms of altitude sickness. Some of them are below:

a. Headache

b. Nausea and vomiting

c. Dizziness

d. Tiredness

e. Loss of appetite

f. Upset stomach

g. Feeling dizzy

h. Shortness of breath

i. Increased heart rate

j. Difficulty sleeping

If you notice any of the symptoms, do not take it for granted. Take necessary precautionary and treatment measures. Some such precautions are:

a. Do not climb any higher for the next 48 hours

b. Descend to a lower altitude if possible

c. Take complete rest until you feel well

d. Do not exercise

e. Do not smoke

f. Drink plenty of water

g. Take external oxygen supply if necessary

h. Take anti-sickness medications

If you don’t feel better but notice you are feeling worse, you will have to be immediately evacuated in a helicopter. So, make sure you purchase your insurance before you trek. The insurance will cover your health costs such as minor & major injuries and emergency helicopter rescue.

There are a couple of local clinics you can consult for minor injuries. Be sure to read up on how to train for high altitude hiking to avoid getting sick.

HIRING A GUIDE AND A PORTER

While you can hike the Langtang on your own, hiring a guide and a porter is highly advisable. A guide will help you navigate through the mountains and will be there in case of an emergency. An added bonus is he will know the best places to eat and stop for the night. When you go to hire a guide, make sure that he or she is licensed to lead tours.

A porter will carry your baggage for you. This will allow you to enjoy long walks without feeling too tired. Even if you have experience carrying heavy backpacks, breathing the thin air of high altitude makes it much more difficult. 

A tip of 15% of what you pay to hire the guide & porter is recommended.

WHAT TO PACK

It is very important to have the right kind of equipment to enjoy any trek. Below is a generous list of the things you need to pack. Depending on your needs, you could pack more or less.

• Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer

• Down vest and/or jacket (optional)

• Fleece or wool pants

• Hiking boots with spare laces

• Thick Wool Hiking Socks

• Footwear For Around Camp (running shoes and/or sandals)

• Gaiters (optional)

• Thermal Base Layers

• Fleece Jacket

• Wind Breaker Jacket (optional)

• Waterproof Shell Jacket

• Thermal Gloves

• Underwear

• Hiking Pants

• Thermal Bottoms

• Sunglasses with UV protection (opt to but this at your home country)

• Sleeping bag rated to 0 degrees (3/4 season)

• Head Lamp , spare bulbs & batteries

• Small padlock to lock trek bag

• Plastic bags

• Daypack (35-40 litres/2500-3000 cubic inches)

• Sleeping Pad

• Water bottles

• Small Towel

• Waterproof Pants (preferably breathable fabric)

• Toiletries

• Basic first aid kit

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

It is safe to carry your electronic devices with you. But make sure to purchase a cover to insulate your devices from extreme temperatures. Nepal has acute electricity shortage so pack a lot of spare batteries just in case. In higher altitudes, the tea houses will charge you extra for charging your devices.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Langtang trek is one of the best ways to experience the Himalayas. It has its own special characteristics that make it worth experiencing. It may not be as famous as the Annapurna Base Camp or the Everest Base Camp , but the experience cannot be compared. I hope you have found this guide useful and enjoy your adventure!

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Langtang Trek Itinerary, Guide, and Cost - 11 Days

Trip Duration

Max Altitude

Tsergo Ri 5000 m

Trip Ends At

Langtang trek itinerary, guide, and cost overview.

Langtang Valley Trek is a short and moderate-level trekking journey that runs through the beautiful Langtang Region. Langtang Valley Trek 11 days is also one of the most favorite and classic trekking journeys alongside the Everest and Annapurna region’s treks. But when compared to those well-known competitors, it is still something of a hidden gem.

The Langtang Valley is also conveniently located just a few kilometers north of Kathmandu and south of the Tibetan border surrounded by beautiful peaks of great appeal. The valley is also referred to as the valley of glaciers with some magnificent mountains in its surroundings; Langtang Lirung (7,246 m) lies to the north, Gang Chhenpo (6,388 m) & Naya Kanga Ri (5,846 m) lies to the south and Dorjee Lakpa (6,966 m) at the east. 

Langtang Valley Trek offers stunning landscape views of two major Himalayan series - Langtang, and Ganesh Himal along with diverse flora and fauna & miscellaneous culture of diverse indigenous groups. You will encounter indigenous Tamang and Sherpa communities when you come across numerous ethnic villages en route. These welcoming villagers will enthusiastically expose you to their culture, which is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, which thrives here in the Himalayas.

Our 11-day Langtang Valley Trek’s pathways start from Syabrubesi which is a day-long drive from the capital and takes you through a surreal world of mountains, glaciers, forests, and rivers. A week-long trek in the Langtang National Park through the lush forests, tropical lowland jungles, and cold high-altitude glaciers offers you spectacular views of Langtang Lirung (7246m), Kimshung (6781m), and Langshisha Ri (6370m) in Kyangjin Gompa. Also, there are chances of observing elusive wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan tahr, or red panda wandering through the dense woodland cover of the national park. As we go from the tropical lowlands to the alpine heights of the Langtang Valley, keen-eyed hikers may even spot indications of the extremely rare snow leopard.

As a whole, the 11 Days Langtang Valley Trek Itinerary is a short, classic, and lesser-known trail that is ideal for those looking for a true Himalayan trip in a short length of time, that gives a taste of Nepalese trekking and is non-crowded even during the peak trekking season.  

Note: Our 11 Days Langtang Valley Trek Itinerary includes a side trek to the Kyanjin Ri (4773)/ Tserko Ri (5450m)/ Langshisa Kharka (4100m) on the 7th day which makes the highlight of this trip. As per the day’s weather conditions, trekkers’ interests, and conditions, we could make one of these three viewpoints that day’s destination.  

Out of these three, Kyanjin Ri is the most popular, Langshisha Kharka is the easiest, and Tserko Ri is the least popular and most difficult one. Popular or not, difficult or not, all these three wilderness side treks equally provide 360-degree views of the Himalayas, Kyanjin Village, numerous glaciers, yak pasture, and a wide bank of the Langtang River.

Highlights of Langtang Valley Trek

• Experience the difference between the busy city and once isolated region from this Langtang Valley Trek
• Trek through the wilderness of the Langtang region with the subtropical jungle to the alpine Rhododendron forest
• Trekking experience in the Valley of Glaciers aka Langtang Valley
• Deep gorges & rivers as well as terraced meadows 
• Walk through the lush green forest filled with Rhododendron and other wildflowers 
• Chance to spot some endangered wildlife species such as Red Panda, Langur Monkeys, etc. 
• Marvelous views of snowy peaks like Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Ri & Langtang Lirung
• Visit different monasteries & a yak cheese factory
• Unique Culture and Traditions of Tamang  & Tibetan

Difficulty Level of Langtang Valley Trek 

Langtang Valley Trek is a moderate trekking journey that requires 6-7 hours of average walks per day for 8-9 days. This trekking does not require any previous experience and any age can complete the journey successfully if they are physically and mentally prepared. 

This 11-day Langtang Valley Trek is easier than Nepal's other well-known treks, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Trek, or EBC Trek. There are no complicated trails and the trail only includes hiking uphills and downhills along a tough trail across narrow and high mountains. There are numerous teahouses and lodges along the trail, providing easy access to lodging and food. This hike necessitates ordinary physical fitness and a desire to see new locations. It is critical to exercise consistently before your expedition to make it easier. You can also go for a day hike that includes some uphill and downhill climbing. It will prepare you for the trekking trail's varied course.

The most common challenge that trekkers confront during a high-altitude journey is altitude sickness. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their age or physical condition. Even though the Langtang trip does not reach the same severe altitude as the Everest climb, altitude sickness can still occur. If you notice any of the symptoms such as a headache, Nausea, vomiting, Shortness of breath, Dizziness, Loss of appetite, Heart rate increment, Difficulty in sleeping, etc., you are suggested to inform your group and guide them immediately. 

Unpredictable weather and temperature conditions add to the difficulty of the Langtang Trek. The weather and climate in the Langtang region change with the seasons. You are recommended to learn about the destination’s weather conditions before your journey so that you can get the best experience. 

However, the mountainous region is not always predictable and you might face sudden challenges despite good preparations. 

The best time to do Langtang Trek 

Trekking in the Langtang Valley is possible in all 4 seasons. The valley takes on distinct flavors depending on the season. However, the most popular times to visit the Langtang region are in the spring (March to May), right after the freezing winter, and in the autumn (September to November), right after the rainy monsoon.

The pre-monsoon and the post-winter season- spring offers longer and warmer days with clear skies and wonderful scenery perfect for Himalayan trekking trips. The Langtang region in the spring season is filled with a colorful mix of pink, red, and white rhododendron forests. The greenery once again thrives after the dry cold winter. The trails mostly at the higher altitudes can be seen surrounded by aromatic wildflowers. 

The most perfect time to explore the Langtang region is during the autumn months. Your walk is accompanied by the beautiful blue sky, breathing fresh air, and clear mountain views. The mild and consistent weather, the festive season, the outrageous vistas, and the trails in their best condition during the fall make your Langtang Trekking journey super perfect. During the peak season, the solo trekkers will encounter a large number of trekkers on the trail.

Winter is characterized by cold and harsh weather, particularly at higher elevations but it is not impossible to do the Langtang trek. Walking could be difficult due to the thick snow on the trails and the cold weather, so trekkers must come well-prepared for this season. The sky, on the other hand, is clear and rewards spectacular views of the valleys, rivers, and surely the Himalayas covered in fresh thick snow. 

The monsoon season is the least pleasant for trekking in Langtang. The weather is quite unpredictable. The rain brings dampness and slickness to the trails. Insects or leeches may keep disturbing you. The intense fog can sometimes obscure vision. Other than that, you'll get to admire the rain-washed surroundings and the clearest views of the mountainscape following the rain.

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Itinerary details.

Upon your arrival at the Kathmandu Airport, you will be greeted by one of the representatives from Himalayan Trekkers and then escort to the designated hotel. You can then rest or stroll around the surrounding streets before we head to Boudhanath Stupa. It is the biggest stupa built in Chaitya/Stupa style in the country which represents Tibetan & Local Nepalese Buddhism. It is one of the most loved destinations by both international and local visitors for its peaceful aura and religious significance.

Then we will drive to Pashupatinath Temple which is just a 15-minute drive from the stupa to join the aarti ceremony that takes place every evening. Pashupatinath is one of the most significant Hindu sites in the world which is devoted to Lord Shiva. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the main temple but can explore the surroundings. You can also witness the open cremation ceremony on the bank of the Bagmati River opposite the aarti ceremony. 

After exploring these two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we will return to Thamel and stroll around the streets and get a glimpse of the area.

Note: These visits are only possible if your arrival is before the afternoon.

After your breakfast, we will begin the full-day Kathmandu exploration. We will explore the remaining world heritage sites other than those that were visited on the previous day (if). If not, we will explore those landmarks and others such as Swayambhunath Temple which is widely famous as the monkey temple because the number of monkeys you see here could be your first time seeing this amount of these creatures. The temple has a history interrelated to the birth of the Kathmandu valley. The top of the hill where the white dome of Swoyambhu is located offers fantastic views of the valley and surrounding mountains. 

We will then visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square and explore the surroundings. Bhaktapur is an ancient Newari town that is also called the city of devotees. The durbar square complex and its surroundings are the major attractions of this town. And some of the highlights of the durbar square are Nyatapola Temple, Golden Gate, 55 window palace, etc. There is a lot to explore in Bhaktapur. 

Then we will drive to Patan and explore Patan Durbar Square. It is also an ancient Newari town known for its arts and architecture. The ancient houses and the complexes, buildings, temples, and statues in the durbar square really show wonderful craftsmanship. Pottery is also famous here. Krishna Mandir, Patan Museum, etc. are the most notable sites here. 

Later in the afternoon, we leave Patan and drive back to Kathmandu and explore the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Once a royal palace is now a museum. This place is also called Hanumandhoka as you can see the statue of Hanuman, a god that resembles a monkey here. The complex also houses Kumari Ghar, the residence of the only Living Goddess, Kumari, and Kasthamandap, a temple built with a single tree’s wood. 

After sightseeing, we can take a stroll around the freak street, the hub of hippies in the 90s. Then, we will take a walk to Newroad market, Indrahowk market, Ason market, and finally enter the Thamel market. 

Later this day, we will have a short briefing session regarding this Langtang Valley Trek journey and you might buy your personal gear on the Thamel market. 

Day 3 starts with an early morning breakfast so that we can leave early to avoid the traffic. We will leave Kathmandu behind and start the Langtang journey with a long scenic drive to a place called Syabrubesi in the Rasuwa district. As soon as we leave the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, we can smell the fresh air and enjoy Nepal's beautiful scenery. We drive along the beautiful Trishuli River with the magnificent Himalayan views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang ranges. 

After 3-4 hours of drive with short breaks in between, we will reach Trishuli Bazaar in the Nuwakot district where we will have a quick lunch break. Then, our drive turns right from the Bazaar to Dhunche town before we reach today’s destination, Syabrubesi. We will check in to our accommodation, rest, explore the surroundings if time permits, eat our dinner, and have a goodnight. 

Finally the main theme of this journey, trekking begins starting today. We will have our breakfast, grab our belongings, and start to walk via the ridge on Syabrubesi’s main road. Soon after starting, we reach the Ghopcha Khola River and pass by terraced fields and dense forests with a variety of plant species like oaks, maple, alder, and bamboo. If we are lucky enough for the day, we might also spot some endangered species such as the red panda others such as yellow-throated martin, wild boar, langur monkey, and Himalayan black bear en route. 

We will continue ascending steeply along the trail, come across a steel suspension bridge at 2000 m and cross to the north bank of the Langtang Khola and arrive at Lama Hotel. Lama Hotel isn't one hotel, but a collection of lodges and homes and our destination for the night. After we reach there, we will settle in at one of the best local lodges there for the night. 

Today after breakfast, we will start early and trek alongside the river through a rich and lush environment. We get a view of beautiful Langtang Lirung and others. Then the trail goes across a log bridge and onto the meadows of Ghoda Tabela at 3000m. From here, the trail goes through the dense forest where here, you can catch a sight of Langur Monkeys and some unique local birds. Once, there was a Tibetan resettlement project here, but now it is a Nepalese army post/checkpoint where you will be registered though it has no permanent inhabitants. The route then ascends gently and reaches a wide valley where few temporary settlements can be seen. 

We then continue and pass by a few traditional chortens, water mills, Mani Walls, and Prayer Wheels before arriving at Langtang Village. Langtang Village is a large scenic settlement of mostly Tamang people who follow Buddhism with flat-roofed Tibetan-style houses, encircled by stone walls surrounded by fields of buckwheat, potatoes, wheat, turnips, and barley. We will explore the village surroundings and might also have some interesting interactions with the locals. 

After breakfast, we'll set out for Kyangjin Gompa, the region's most important monastery. We pass religious mounds of rocks with inscriptions etched on them, as well as water mills, prayer wheels, and chortens. We also walk through Nepal's largest mani wall, which is constructed of stone and has prayers written on it. We will spend the rest of the afternoon following the short climb exploring the Tibetan Buddhist shrine in Kyangjin Gompa and the surrounding environs, which provide us with breathtaking views of the mountains such as Dorje Larpa (6990 m), Langtang RI (6370 m), and Langtang Lirung (7245 m). We will also visit the cheese factory there and observe the procedure of making it. We dine in and call it our day. 

We wake up with amazing scenery of mighty peaks and glaciers. We then head to the monastery to observe the Buddhist monks’ enchanting morning prayers and pilgrims praying. We return to our lodge, eat our breakfast, and prepare for the day. We either hike to Langshisa Kharka (4100 meters) or Tserko Ri (5450 meters) depending on the weather and your interests. Both places provide close-up views of the surrounding peaks, including Yala Peak, Langtang Ri, Langtang Lirung, Naya Kanga, and Langshisha Ri Peak. However, the path to Langshisha Kharka is less difficult than Tserko Ri.

As we say our goodbyes to the vibrant Buddhist village of Kyanjin Gompa, we will be hiking all the way back to Lama Hotel today. As we descend, we will pass by familiar yak herding towns and open alpine grasslands. After lunch at Ghoda Table, we will take some time to see any sights in Langtang village that we might have missed, such as the earthquake memorial, before setting out on the path to Lama Hotel. 

We will check into the teahouse and unpack our hefty backpacks. Then it's time to relax and take in the scenery of pines and rhododendrons wafting in the mountain breeze as residents go about their daily routines.

We will start our walk back to Syabrubesi after breakfast this morning. Our routes return to Syabrubesi descending through pine forest and through Bamboo and Ramche before crossing the Bhote Khola River. Today’s trek will be easier than the previous days as it mostly involves descending.  Once we check-in we will have a rest and in the evening, we sit together for dinner where we all will share experiences. 

After our breakfast, we leave the Langtang Region via road to get back to Kathmandu. We will return along the same gorgeous road we took a week ago to get her.  You will then check into the hotel when we reach the city and can get some well-deserved rest and leisure. This evening, spend some time exploring the city's bustling Thamel neighborhood's tourist markets. 

This is how our amazing Langtang Valley Trek ends. Today after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight. If you have some leisure time before your flight, you can make the last Thamel stroll and buy get some souvenirs to take back home.

What is included / not included

• Airport Transfer on Private Vehicle
• Twin/Double Sharing Accommodations at 3* Standard Category  Hotel in Kathmandu
• Daily Breakfast at Hotel in Kathmandu
• Guided Sightseeing in Kathmandu as per itinerary
• All Ground transfers as per Itinerary
• English-speaking Trekking Guide and required number of Porters as per Group Size
• Heritage/Monuments Entrance Fees as Given in the Itinerary
• Kathmandu - Syabrubesi - Kathmandu Private Transfer ( Depending on Group Size and Interest of Travelers)
• Twin/Double Sharing Guest House/Tea House Accommodations during the Trek as per itinerary given
• Meals - Breakfast Lunch & Dinner During the Trek
• Langtang National Park, TIMS Fees
• Wages, Medical, Travel Insurance, Salary, Meals/Accommodation, Equipment for Guide, Porter, and Supportive Crew
• Welcome/Farewell Dinner
• All Applicable Taxes
• Nepal Visa Fee ( Can be Obtain Upon Arrival at Airport/Border)
• International Airfare and taxes to/from Kathmandu
• Meals - Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
• Your Travel insurance 
• Any kind of Beverages
• Personal Expenses and Extra Trip/Services which are not included in the services
• Personal Trekking Clothing/Gears
• Tipping/Gratitudes 
• Expenses that are caused by unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, natural disasters, political issues, personal illness, etc. 
• Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Includes section

Accommodation

This Langtang Valley Trek package of Himalayan Trekkers includes all the accommodations during your stay in Kathmandu and throughout the trek.  We offer you the most affordable  Langtang Valley Trek Cost . In Kathmandu, you are provided 3* Standard category accommodations in a prime location, They are on a twin-sharing/double-sharing basis. However, if you prefer luxurious choices or upgrade services, you can also get them at an additional cost. 

We will stay at the local teahouses for 7 days in the Langtang Region as per this itinerary. The teahouses and lodges are of great quality with excellent service in the lower Langtang. But it can get very basic with other modest amenities at the higher elevations. The rooms are on a twin/double sharing basis with sharing dining and washrooms. You can get the single supplementary during the off-seasons at an extra price. 

Meals During Langtang Trek 

During your Langtang Valley Trek, you will be passing by several teahouses that provide a choice of lodging and dining options. They offer wholesome meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that cater to the trekkers' vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices. The cuisines may range from spaghetti to the Nepali staple menu, Daal Bhat which simply is rice and lentil soup with some veggies or vegetable curry. 

Himalayan Trekkers make sure that the teahouses or the lodges where you will be dining provide fresh and healthy food. 

Note: We have not included lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu in the package because you will have plenty of choices from a vast variety of cuisines and restaurants/cafes/pubs accessible in the cities. But, we can recommend some of the best that match your preferences

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Langtang Valley Trek: Everything You Need To Know

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories NEPAL , HIKING

The Langtang Valley Trek is a unique expedition in the Himalayas of Nepal. While shorter than many other popular treks in Nepal, the adventurous expeditions and day-hikes throughout this route make it one of my favorites. After three days of trekking, you will reach Kyanjin Gompa. From this small mountain town, there are several incredible day-hikes with fantastic views.

The short 3-day trek into Kyanjin Gompa makes this trek shorter, cheaper but arguably more beautiful than other treks such as Manaslu Circuit, Everest Base Camp Trek, or the Annapurna Circuit. I did this trek with the trekking company Himalayan Masters who I’ve trekked with

In this blog post, I will cover everything you need to know about the logistics of the Langtang Valley Trek. I’ll also share with you my experience on each day of the trek in the form of a short journal entry and my photos from that day. This will give you an idea of what to expect and a great insight into the scenery you will find on each day of the trek. I’ve already created a lengthy guide for the nearby viewpoints such as Tserko Ri, Kyanjin Ri, or the climb of Yala Peak .

Before sharing my experience in the second section of this blog post, I will detail all of the information you have to know in this complete guide about the Langtang Valley Trek and climbing Yala Peak.

BEST TREKKING COMPANY IN NEPAL

Interested in trekking in Nepal or doing the Everest Base Camp Trek? I recommend booking your trek with Himalayan Masters , which is the company I use for all of my treks in Nepal. Use my code  JACKSON5  when you book to receive a 5% DISCOUNT .

Table of Contents

A GUIDE TO THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

In this guide, you will find all of the valuable information you need to plan your trek as well as my personal experience on the entire trek including the Kyanjin Ri Viewpoint, Tserko Ri Viewpoint, and Yala Peak climb.

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK DETAILS

• Distance : 77km or 48 miles
• Days required : 9 days including 2 days of transit to and from Kathmandu (7 days trekking)
• Total Incline : 4000 meters
• Total Decline : 4000 meters
• The highest point on the trek : From Kyanjin Gompa you can reach Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) or Tserko Ri viewpoint (5,033m). Additionally, you can climb Yala Peak from Kyanjin Gompa, which has an altitude of 5,500m.
• Difficulty : The Langtang Valley Trek is much shorter than Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit although relativley similair. You will reach an altitude of 5000m, which will challenge many. Altitude sickness can be common. The route ascends quite quickly with several days having more than 1000m of altitude gain. These days of ascent are tiring and also require the body to adjust quickly. It is a good beginner trek in Nepal but not one to be taken lightly.
• Permits : You will need a TIMS card and Park Entrance Permit, both can be purchased when entering the park.
• Guide: A guide is not required on this trek. However, the guide manages all of the logistics, distances, directions, and tea houses for your group. I used maps.me to navigate from tea-house to tea-house and found the paths easy to follow. If it’s your first time trekking in Nepal, I would suggest having a guide.
• Accommodation: Guest Houses, also known as Tea Houses, are available along the way where you will sleep in a comfortable bed and have access to showers (extra charge) and restaurant facilities. It was very comfortable accommodation and great after a long day of hiking. Most of the villages were Tibetan, which gave us a great insight into their unique culture.

TRY THE 3 BEST TREKS IN NEPAL

Manaslu Circuit : My personal favorite 2-week trek through Tibetan villages and stunning scenery. Less crowded and more authentic.

Annapurna Circuit : The most beautiful & scenic 2-week trek in Nepal although can be crowded at times.

Everest Base Camp Trek : The most iconic 2-week route reaching the famous (EBC) Everest Base Camp at 5,300m.

KEY POINTS ABOUT THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

• This circuit is way less crowded than Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Circuit. It is growing in popularity but it’s still a great time to trek this circuit before it hits the mainstream.
• There are teahouses in each village along the way so each night you get a great sleep in a bed with blankets, have access to showers, eat great meals in a restaurant, and can charge your electronics and cameras.
• The trailhead can be reached by car so there is no need to pay for expensive domestic flights.
• I think it is important to base in Kyanjin Gompa for atleast three nights so you can hike up to Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri, which are the highlight of the trip.

BOOKING A GUIDE FOR THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

The Langtang Valley Trek doesn’t require a guide but it’s great to have a guide managing the logistics such as directions, tea-houses, distances, medical issues, and the overall organization. I’d say 80% of trekkers go with a guide. I did the trek with Himalayan Masters which is one of the top trekking companies when it comes to the Langtang Valley Trek.

The trek costs around $800 USD with Himalayan Masters as of 2022 and includes all transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks, permits, and even the hotel stay before and after the trek at a high-quality hotel. I honestly had a great time on this trek and I can wholeheartedly recommend Himalayan Masters.

You can use my discount code ‘ JACKSON5 ‘ for 5% off the total price of your trek with Himalayan Masters which is a pretty handy saving.

Email: [email protected]

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK PACKING LIST

I packed pretty light and managed to wash most of my clothes each afternoon/night for the first half of the trip. In the latter stages of the trip, it was pretty cold so we weren’t sweating as much and we wore our warm gear basically nonstop while at the teahouses. There was no real need for multiple outfits.

This is just a guide and it worked quite well for me with no complaints from my set-up. You won’t need a sleeping bag as there are blankets in each guesthouse and when it got cold I just wore my down jacket to bed. This meant I didn’t have to carry a sleeping bag for the entire trek.

• 1 pair of pants that maybe convert to shorts
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 Warm or thicker pair of hiking pants
• 1 Long sleeve quick-dry shirt
• 1 Long-sleeve thermal shirt
• 2 Short-sleeve t-shirts
• 1 Thermal long underwear
• 4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
• 1 Lightweight down jacket
• 1 Heavy-duty summit down jacket
• 1 Neck Buff
• Hiking boots
• 1 pair of warm summit socks
• 2-3 pairs of regular socks
• Trekking poles
• Water filter

All of this should fit into a backpack no bigger than 50L and should be less than 14kg.

WIFI/ELECTRICITY AVAILABILITY ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

• Wifi: Costs anywhere from $free to $4 to use wifi at the guesthouses. Buy an NTC Sim before you go. It worked in most spots after Lama Hotel with a weak signal but we were able to send emails, watch Youtube, and message friends from Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa.
• Electricity:  You will have to pay anywhere from $free at low elevation to $5 to charge your power banks, cameras, and phones. The key is to get a big power bank. Pay to charge it then charge everything from your power bank. My power bank lets me charge my phone and four camera batteries before it dies. Most of the places we stayed let us charge our gear for free but when it is busy they usually charge a fee as many teahouses run off gas or solar.

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN KATHMANDU

• Ultimate Luxury: The Dwarika’s Hotel – Luxury, Spa-service, Pool
• Best Value : Aloft Kathmandu Thamel – Swimming Pool, Gym & Great Restuarant
• Budget Choice: Hotel Jampa is easily the top cheap hotel in Kathmandu

LANGTANG VALLEY TREK ITINERARY

This is one of the shorter treks in Nepal and has a straightforward itinerary.

• Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1550m) 7 hours
• Day 2: Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,380m) 6 hours
• Day 3 : Lama Hotel to Mundu via Langtang Village (3,430) 6 hours
• Day 4: Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) 3 hours
• Day 5 : Kyanjin Gompa to Tserko Ri to Kyanjin Gompa (5000m) 7 hours
• Day 6: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel (2,380m) 6 hours
• Day 7: Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi (1550m) 6 hours
• Day 8: Drive from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu 7 hours

THE FULL VLOG FROM OUR LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

DRINKING WATER ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

I use the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier and it is a game-changer for hiking in Nepal, making this super easy and cheap. The Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier removes 99.9999% of viruses of disease-causing bacteria. The best thing about it is it only takes 15 seconds and one press to purify water from any fresh water source. You don’t need to buy bottled water at every tea-house contributing to large amounts of plastic waste and costing you $4+ per day.

Along the Langtang Valley Trek, we filled up at tea-houses, rivers, and local village taps. Unlike aqua purification tablets which require you to wait 30 minutes before drinking, you can have rehydrated yourself immediately with the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier .

GrayL Water Purifier

• Never pay for water on the trek
• Save 3-4 plastic water bottles a day
• Turns any water into drinking water

INSURANCE FOR THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

Nepal can be a dangerous place for trekking or hiking because the high altitude can lead to many illnesses, weakness in trekkers, and misjudgments. There is also a risk on trails for falls, avalanches, or other mishaps. Your regular travel insurance probably won’t cover you at high altitude and won’t cover a helicopter evacuation. There is a solution though .

Need extra protection?

Regular travel insurance is great but won’t cover you for high altitude hikes or for helicopter evacuation. Each year, I purchase a Global Rescue Subscription .

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BEST TIME AND SEASON FOR THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

The peak season for the Langtang Valley Trek is March to April and October to November. The time to avoid this trek is during the rainy season from June to August .

During the winter from December to February, this region gets very cold and there will be snow cover in the higher parts of the trek. Many of the guesthouses actually close up for the winter and re-open in late February to March. However, it is possible to hike the Langtang Valley Trek on the fringe of the season in late February/early March and it can be quite beautiful with snow cover.

I hiked the Langtang Valley Trek in early March and it was warm during the day and got pretty cold at night. We experienced some heavy snow on Tserko Ri and Yala Peak but the trekking routes were clear.

HOW TO GET TO THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

There are two main ways to reach Syabrubesi, which is the small town at the starting point of the trek. Despite the distance from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi only being 125km, the journey takes a long time due to the traffic and quality of the road.

Jeep: We went by private Jeep organized by our tour company Himalayan Masters. It costs about $180 to hire the vehicle out for the drive so can be split between your group. It’s not cheap but much less brutal than the lengthy bus journey.

Public Bus: The bus costs about $10 USD and can take anywhere from 7-10 hours depending on the traffic and if there are any roadworks or landslides recently. The bus leaves every day from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi at 6 am and 8 am as well as other defined times. The bus station in Kathmandu is called ‘ New Bus Station’ .

MY EXPERIENCE ON THE LANGTANG VALLEY TREK

Throughout this section of this guide, I will share my experience with each part of this trek. I found the Langtang Valley Trek quite unique as the trek in was actually not too exciting. However, it became an incredible experience once we reached Kyanjin Gompa and did the two hikes Tserko Ri and Kyanjin Ri as well as the Yala Peak climb.

So, unlike other treks where the trekking along the route is the highlight, I found that the time when we were based at Kyanjin Gompa was the highlight and found the trek into Kyanjin Gompa relatively mild.

TREKKING FROM SYABRUBESI TO KYANJIN GOMPA

Syabrubesi seems somewhat of a trekking town even though it is connected by road to the greater civilization. The main street is lined with guesthouses and some of the menus display prices that would see you are already in a remote mountain village.

I would recommend Hotel Lhasa for good Momo and friendly Tibetan owners. This is the last place you will have a reliable internet connection, a moderately warm shower, and a chance to buy any last-minute essentials.

The journey from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gompa typically takes most trekkers three days. There are many different options for guesthouses along the way but most seem to follow a distinct route.

Lama Hotel (name of the town not the hotel) is the most common stop for the first night. The trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel is quite intense and involves about 15 kilometers in distance. However, it is the 1200m of vertical gain and sun exposure that will knock you about.

The trail begins alongside the river and has a lot of exposed sunny sections. The elevation isn’t high yet at just over 2300m so it can be very hot. Undulating alongside the river, the trail delves into the forest and careens up endless flights of rocky stairs. You can expect a few glimpses of snow-covered peaks but today is mostly about the river, forests, and a few bridge crossings as the highlights.

Upon reaching Lama Hotel, we were a little confused. There were six or seven hotels, all with Lama Hotel in their signage. Friendly Guest House Lama Hotel, Origin Lama Hotel, Sunrise Guest House Lama Hotel. It turns out this small village is just a collection of hotels and the location is known as Lama Hotel.

We ended up staying at the Friendly Guest House, run by a Tibetan family who was indeed friendly. Here we had a warm bucket shower, no signal, no electricity, great Tibetan food, a warm heater in the dining room, and comfortable beds with blankets. All you can ask for in the mountains really.

On our second day of trekking, we headed from Lama Hotel all the way to Langtang. You could stop earlier at smaller towns, but Langtang was recommended to us. The trail really opens up in the second half of the day as you break out of the forest and trek along the slopes of the valley towards Langtang.

Snow-capped peaks begin to appear throughout the day. However, just after winter, the landscape is burnt orange. In the spring, you could expect lush green grass and wildflowers to create a much more vibrant setting. Personally, I prefer the trekking during the winter time when there are more snow-capped peaks.

The journey from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village was about nine kilometers with almost 800 meters of incline. It was much softer than the first day but you are now reaching a higher elevation and may start to feel the oxygen thinning. In Langtang, I stayed at Chomo Valais and it had a hot shower and comfortable beds. It was similar to most tea-houses in the region and had a nice dining room with glass windows to enjoy the view.

The final day of trekking from Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa is short and sweet. With just 6.5 kilometers and a few hundred meters of incline, it is by far the shortest day of the trek. Many people actually find it so short, they had up to Kyanjin Ri viewpoint on the same day as reaching Kyanjin Gompa.

On the way to Kyanjin Gompa, spectacular views of Tserko Ri and 7000m snow-capped peaks come into view. Following the river, you will pass by the stupa and monastery on your way into the town. Kyanjin Gompa is quite unique as the town is hidden from both sides until you basically reach the entrance due to the ridges and its hiding spot in the small valley.

I kept wondering when it would appear as the map said the entire town was just 150 yards away. I still couldn’t see any buildings, and then finally, we climbed the final hill and Kyanjin Gompa was revealed.

What are my favorite pieces of trekking gear?

There are six pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go trekking. These are five items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my trekking essentials.

• Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket : This is my go-to rain jacket. It’s super light, folds down into a tiny ball, and protects brilliantly in a storm. This one never leaves my backpack.
• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots : For the best ankle support, waterproofing, and durable exterior I’m a fan of tough but light hiking boots like these Salomons for my adventures.
• Black Diamond Head Torch : I can’t tell you how many times, I’ve arrived back from a hike unexpectedly late. I always keep this lightweight but strong headtorch in my bag for the unexpected.
• Darn Tough Socks : These are the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn and last for years. They also have a lifetime warranty and you just send them in with a hole and they replace it no questions asked.
• Osprey Atmos AG 65L Backpack : I’ve never had a more comfortable 65L pack than this one. I got it in the Navy Blue and have trekked with it through many a mountain.
• Bl ack Diamond Trekking Poles : They might feel weird at first, but on a long trek with incline and decline you’ll begin to love these.
• Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle : I’ve used this for three years. It filters your water with one press and you can drink directly from it. Never buy a plastic water bottle again!

 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT KYANJIN GOMPA

Kyanjin Gompa is the end of the trek for most people. It’s a beautiful town with an incredible backdrop of snow peaks in all directions. The biggest mistake you can make on the Langtang Valley Trek is to stay one night and turn around and hike back down.

The absolute highlight of this trek is to base in Kyanjin Gompa for a few nights and spend one day hiking up Kyanjin Ri and one day hiking up Tserko Ri. We also spent another day climbing Yala Peak but that requires certain gear and experience.

I ended up staying six nights in Kyanjin Gompa. My itinerary was the following:

• Yala Peak Base Camp
• Yala Peak/Sleep at Kyanjin Gompa

Understandably that is a lot of time but we were also trying to acclimatize for Yala Peak so we added in the rest days. The trek in to Kyanjin Gompa was good but not amazing. I really found that the time spent in Kyanjin Gompa was what made this trek is so great not the actual trek in itself. This is different from many other treks such as Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit where each day of trekking is the highlight rather than a specific destination or a specific town.

I stayed at Mountain View Hotel while in Kyanjin Gompa. It’s one of the smaller, older guest houses and I really enjoyed it here. Unlike many of the new multi-story hotels in the village, this hotel just had two floors and a cozy dining room.

Mipsang, the owner, is one of the kindest and most caring guys we’ve met in Nepal. Say hello to him for us if you end up staying there.

At Mountain View Hotel we had had water showers, internet connection from our sim card, great food, comfortable beds and blankets, and electrical outlets available in the room.

HIKING TO KYANJIN RI FROM KYANJIN GOMPA

From Kyanjin Gompa there are two awesome day-hikes. The smaller and most popular hike is Kyanjin Ri. This viewpoint towers over Kyanjin Gompa and has more than 700m of vertical gain in just a few kilometers. While short in distance, don’t underestimate this hike as it is incredibly steep and reaches heights of 4,700 meters.

The trail begins directly out of the town up the nearest ridge. A series of switchbacks leads you up to Lower Kyanjin Ri, which is the first viewpoint on the route. Covered in prayer flags, this viewpoint you will have you peering down over the entire town with jaw-dropping views across the valley.

Continuing on, the ridge-line track continues higher and higher. We trekked just after winter and there was still considerable snow coverage for this trekking peak. Reaching Kyanjin Ri, we were walking across the snow at 4700m on a ridge overlooking the Langtang Lirung Glacier and the Langtang Lirung Peak (7,227m). To the right of Langtang Lirung you can find Changbu (6251m) and Yubra (6264m).

You can also spot Yala Peak (5,500m), which is the peak we ended up climbing on our trip to Kyanjin Gompa. And finally, across to the nearest peak, you can see Tserko Ri (5,000m), which will be your final objective on this trek.

I suggest starting this hike just after sunrise as you won’t be too cold but you will also reach the summit before the afternoon clouds roll in. Take a packed lunch of Tibetan bread and an omelet from your tea house to eat at the summit and you are all set.

If you are interested in this expedition, I’ve written an entire guide about our Kyanjin Ri Hike.

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HIKING TO TSERKO RI FROM KYANJIN GOMPA

Tserko Ri (5,700m) is the finale for the Langtang Valley Trek. At 5,000m of elevation, this is a true test for trekkers against the elements and the altitude. It’s an optional day-hike, but one I highly suggest. Tserko Ri isn’t as hard as it sounds and is similar in many ways to its smaller brother, Kyanjin Ri.

The trek is about 8 kilometers in total with almost 1500m of incline throughout the day. It will definitely be a tough test and took us about seven hours to complete at a slow pace with lots of photos.

The trek takes you up a ridge all the way to the summit with very little danger to be found along the relatively wide and safe path. We visited just after winter and only encountered snow right at the last portion of the hike. Unfortunately, it was very soft and made it slow-going and difficult.

We managed to reach the summit and were the fourth and fifth people to touch the top for the season. Later in the season with less snow, this is a basic trekking peak and the only major consideration is the incline and the altitude.

The summit of Tserko Ri is quite unique. A festival years ago at the summit involved carrying many large wooden poles to the top from which prayer flags were hung. There are so many poles and flags the summit has begun to look like a sailing ship. Nowhere in the Himalayas have I seen this many prayer flags at a summit, which made for a colorful, vibrant setting atop the peak.

The views from Tserko Ri are simply phenomenal. With panoramic views, you can expect to see Yala Peak, Langtang Ri, Langtang Lirung, Naya Khang and many more.

As with Kyanjin Ri, it is best to be up at the summit before midday to avoid the afternoon clouds rolling in. I advise starting this hike no later than 7 am for the best possible conditions and views at the summit.

If you are interested in this expedition, I’ve written an entire guide about our Tserko Ri Hike.

CLIMBING YALA PEAK

Yala Peak is a non-technical peak near Tserko Ri, which could be a great trekking peak for those on the hunt for a challenge.

We climbed Yala Peak with a guide over a two-day period. The climb included a trek to Yala Kharka (4750), which is the base camp. The summit push followed the next morning to Yala Peak (5,500m) through some heavy snow. With views into Tibet and specifically of Shishapangma, it was an incredible experience.

Yala Peak is not commonly part of the Langtang Valley Trek and involves prior preparation. We had to carry in our 6000m boots, extra warm gear, and climbing gear and arranged our climb in advance. While a guide can be arranged in Kyanjin Gompa, there is no gear rental shop so you may need to decide if Yala Peak is on your agenda before you begin the trek.

If you are interested in this expedition, I’ve written an entire guide about our Yala Peak Climb.

TREKKING FROM KYANJIN GOMPA TO SYABRUBESI

The trek back to Syabrubesi from Kyanjin Gompa takes most trekkers just two days. With only descent on the cards, it is much quicker than the trek upwards. On our first day of trekking, we made it all the way down to Lama Hotel with a 19km hike. On the second day, we had a 12km hike back to Syabrubesi.

It’s only 31km in total and there were some trekkers doing it all in one day. However, with more than 3000m of decline, I suggest taking at least two days for the descent as it can be quite tiring on the knees and ankles to endure so many steps and uneven surfaces.

After ten days out in the Langtang region, we wrapped up our trip with a celebratory beer at the Lhasa Hotel alongside a platter of Momo. It was one of our favorite treks and the expeditions from Kyanjin Gompa were wildly adventurous and incredible memories.

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal and have a great experience yourself!

HAVE YOU READ MY OTHER NEPAL BLOGS?

I’ve been lucky enough to have many awesome adventures in Nepal, which you can check out below where I’ve listed some of my favorite blog poss from Nepal.

• The Most Iconic route: Everest Base Camp Trek
• The Most Scenic Route: Annapurna Circuit Trek
• My Favorite Trek in Nepal: Manaslu Circuit Trek
• An Easy Nepal Trek: Langtang Valley Trek
• A great beginner peak: Island Peak Climb (6,165m)
• My Favorite Climb in Nepal: Climbing Ama Dablam (6,812m)
• My first 8000er: Climbing Manaslu (8,163m)
• My toughest climb in Nepal: Climbing Makalu (8,463m)
• Where to stay: 16 Best Places to Stay in Kathmandu

Saturday 13th of May 2023

This blog has me already planning this in my head. I love hiking and being from Australia, I didn't get much of this sort of thing there, nor, here in Thailand, but I feel like I'd be mad not to get on board with this whilst I'm living in this part of the world.

Hey guy below "Jay" I was living in Brisbane, and there are plenty of good training spots for a hike like this in QLD. Maybe not the snow, but if you want to spend a night on one of the local peaks in the middle of Winter, it'll get you ready, both physically and mentally. If you want a challenge and want to test yourself locally first, try hiking through Mount Kosciuszko area, you can go through the back way on a multiday hike and it's both physically and mentally challenging, and it feels so remote, it takes very little time in those sorts of mountains to feel very alone and vulnerable. But totally worth it!!

Thanks for the article! Brilliant.

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

Hello Jackson! What an incredible article with so many beautiful photos! I would have loved to have done the Langtang Valley trek with my mother when she was alive - she was the adventurous one, having climbed all of the Scottish Munros, summer and winter, including abseiling down the top of the InPin (I know, not a patch on Nepal!). Sadly, I lost her a couple of years ago, but even at 84 and dying of cancer, she still took us half way up Cairngorm! Maybe I'll manage it one day! Meantine, keep on trekking and stay safe!

Saturday 22nd of April 2023

Hi Jackson! Thank you for this very informative page. I'm hoping to hike this trek in November of this year. Absolute novice, barely done any hikes. I do keep fit with regular exercise though, and will train for this trek soon. I'm based in Queensland, Australia. I do have a fear of heights though, I was wondering what your thoughts were about the trek with this issue. Are there many suspension bridges and are they pretty high up? Would the trek otherwise be all right from that point of view? Thank you for your help. And I know it almost sounds ridiculous wanting to trek with a fear of heights but its something I've always wanted to do. Thank you for your time!

Alpha Adventure Treks

Your Perfect Trekking Partner

A Guide to the Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal

Last Updated on May 17, 2023 by Alpha Adventure Treks

The Langtang trek is one of Nepal’s shortest trekking trails. From the jungle with banana trees and monkeys at lower heights to glaciers and ice peaks at higher elevations, it offers spectacular beauty. Short does not imply simple; the path is difficult from the start, with several long and steep ascents, as is typical of Nepalese trekking.

The trek can be completed as a standalone adventure, in conjunction with the Tamang Heritage trek, or as an acclimatization trek before attempting one of the longer and more difficult routes like as Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit.

The Langtang Valley is one of the most well-known treks in Nepal’s central region. The alpine scenery around Langtang valley is very magnificent and spectacular.

Langtang trekking takes you through some of Tibet’s old monasteries, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and alpine meadows. Langtang’s valley floor and alpine slops bloom freely with poppy and other alpine flowers throughout the summer, creating a spectacular display of world flowers.

Langtang Lirung (7,246 m), Gang Chhenpo (6,388 m), Naya Kangri (5,846 m), and Dorje Lakpa(6,966 m) are some of the most important mountains in Langtang .

Check Langtang Valley Trekking Package

Table of Contents

Top 10 Reason To Choose Langtang Valley Trek

• Stunning views: The Langtang Valley trek offers breathtaking views of the Langtang Lirung glacier and the surrounding peaks, including Langtang Ri, Yala Peak, and the Dorje Lakpa massif.
• Cultural diversity: The Langtang Valley is home to a diverse mix of Tamang and Tibetan cultures, and the trek offers the opportunity to learn about and experience these cultures firsthand.
• Off the beaten path: While the Langtang Valley trek is not as crowded as some of the other popular trekking routes in Nepal, it is still well-maintained and offers a variety of accommodation options. This means that you can enjoy a more authentic and peaceful trekking experience.
• Wildlife spotting: The Langtang Valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan black bears, red pandas, and even the occasional leopard. The trek offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching.
• V aried terrain: The Langtang Valley trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and high-altitude passes. This diversity makes for an interesting and varied trekking experience.
• Adventure: The Langtang Valley trek offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, including the option to summit Tserko Ri, a peak that offers panoramic views of the Langtang region.
• Community-based tourism: Many of the accommodations along the Langtang Valley trek are run by local communities, which helps to support the local economy and promote sustainable tourism practices.
• Spiritual significance: The Langtang Valley is home to several Buddhist monasteries and holy sites, which adds a spiritual dimension to the trek.
• Natural hot springs: The Langtang Valley is home to several natural hot springs, which provide a welcome respite after a long day of trekking.
• Good for all levels: The Langtang Valley trek is suitable for trekkers of all levels, from beginners to experienced hikers. There are a variety of routes and options available, making it possible for everyone to find a trek that is suitable for their fitness and experience level.

Overview of the Langtang Trek

• Distance – 77 km/48 mi
• Total ascent – 3925 m/12 877 ft
• Total Days: 9-11 Days
• Highest point – 4600m/15 000 ft Kynajin Ri peak
• Accommodation – guest houses
• Permits – TIMS card and Park entrance permit required
• Cost per day – US$25-30 per person including permits and transportation

Outlined Itinerary for Langtang valley trek:

Day 1 : Arrival day Day 2 : Kathmandu valley (1,300 m) (sightseeing) Day 3 : Kathmandu (1,300 m) to SyabruBesi (1,550 m) Day 4 : SyabruBesi (1,550 m) to Lama Hotel (2,450 m) Day 5 : Lama Hotel (2,450 m) to Langtang village (3,430 m) Day 6 : Langtang village (3,430 m) to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) Day 7 : Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) (Acclimatization day) Day 8 : Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) to Lama Hotel (2,450 m) Day 9 : Lama Hotel (2,450 m) to SyabruBesi (1,550 m) Day 10 : Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300 m)

Typically, 10 days are enough for concluding Langtang valley trek in accessible manner.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider a Langtang Trek for your next walking vacation:

• Langtang is a breathtakingly magnificent mountain range.
• Langtang treks are easily accessible.
• More than 70 glaciers and stunning lakes, including Goshainkunda (4,380 m), Parvatikunda, Bhairavkunda, and Dudhkunda, can be found in the Langtang valley.
• Survey Langtang National Park (the first Himalayan national park), which was established in 1976 and contains a diverse mix of flora and animals within a 1,710 km2 overall territory.
• Diverse cultures and landscapes
• Because it’s quiet, you’ll be able to learn (and give) much more than you would elsewhere.

“Even if you are unaware of Nepal’s recent history, the Langtang region is a unique corner of the world. By choosing to spend time in Langtang and with its people, you may obtain a better understanding of what life is like beneath Nepal’s vast snow mountains.”

Difficulty level and physical effort for Langtang valley trek

Langtang valley trek is categorized as moderate because it is just over 5,000 meters above sea level. If we can consistently walk for 5-6 hours, we can build up a trek for using a light bag load. For those who are accustomed to walking at higher heights, the climb is much easier.

Furthermore, the Glacier region necessitates a bit more activity in terms of running and exercising on a regular basis before beginning the trek in a couple of months. Aside from that, workouts focusing on the heart, muscles, and lungs would be good in preparing for the Langtang valley trek.

Langtang Valley Trek Facilities and Accommodation:

When compared to other Nepalese treks, the Langtang Valley trek is well-equipped. Imagine savoring a cup of world-class Italian coffee while admiring the magnificent scenery of Langtang Lirung.

Isn’t that fantastic? There are numerous recently constructed hotels and guesthouses that offer superb lodging and dining.

You won’t need to bring any food with you on your hike. There are various alternatives here, ranging from local cuisine to international cuisine.

The hotels provide amenities such as free WiFi and hot showers. Hotels and teahouses can be found at regular intervals throughout the walk. In general, the cuisine and lodging amenities are outstanding.

Best Time to do Langtang Trek:

Spring (March, April, and May) and fall (September, October and November) are the optimum seasons for a Langtang valley trek. The greatest time to see the spectacular mountains and glaciers is in the autumn. Spring also brings us snow-capped mountains and green woodlands brimming with crimson rhododendrons.

Aside from this, the Monsoon has its own significance. Trails are infested with leeches due to the rainy season. Waterfalls, rivers, foliage, and flora and fauna, on the other hand, shine brightest during this season. As a result, nature lovers and photographers enjoy this season.

For the Langtang Valley Trek, you’ll need the following information:

• Passport, separate photocopies of passport, proof of insurance, two additional page size photos, flight tickets, card money, ready money for obtaining Nepalese visa at airport, and photocopies of identity card (for withdrawing cash from bank/ATM).
• Head scarf, warm hat/cap, alternative head lamp, sunglasses, half and long sleeve upper wears, wind cheater jackets, waterproof jackets, light and warm thermal tops and pair of normal, woolen or fleece gloves, trekking shorts, trekking trousers, woolen trousers, waterproof pants, light weighted thermal bottoms, normal and woolen socks, and trekking shoes
• Sleeping bag, large travel bag, small personal carry bag, camera with additional batteries, binoculars, little folding knife, anti-bacterial hand wash, guide books, pocket travel games, power bank are all useful goods.
• Medical and toiletries: First-aid kit (containing bandages, anti-loose motion pills, anti-headache pills, cold and cough medicine, anti-altitude sickness pills, water purification tablets, and stomach antibiotic) and toiletry information, if desired.

Trekking Equipment List:

Body clothing:.

• Sleeping Bag
• Down Jacket
• Three pairs of trekking t-shirts
• Long sleeved shirts
• Thermal Shirt for Colder place
• Fleece Jacket
• Warm wool Sweaters
• Waterproof and windproof Jacket
• Cotton Trekking pants with folding
• Waterproof and windproof pants

Head and Face:

• Wool or fleece hat
• Sunscreen 50
• Face wipes and towel

List of Foot wears :

• Trekking Boats
• ¾ Paris Preferably Cotton Socks
• One pairs extra Sport Shoes

Necessary Gears:

• Gaiters just in case if snow
• Gloves and Thick Gloves
• Big rucksack above the 40 L
• Waterproof Bag Cover
• Trekking Pole (if you needed)
• Laundry Soap
• Toilet papers
• Water peals
• Bottle for drinking water
• Pen and Note Book
• Copy and Tourist Guide Book
• Battery charger
• Memory card
• Cell Phone and Charger
• Money Wallet
• Altimeters and Playing card

First aid Kid:

• Cotton bandages
• Paracetamol
• Painkillers
• Loperamide to Control diarrhea (just in Case).
• Water purified tablets
• Elastic bandages
• Thermometer
• Moleskin and sling.

Activities To Do in Langtang National Park:

Visitors can participate in a range of activities in the park with the help of guides and tour operators.

Visitors can go hiking, climbing, bird watching, or go on a nature walk, village walks, visit hot springs after the trip for a hot bath, and many more activities, depending on their level of adventure and interest.

Langtang Treks FAQs:

Langtang trek difficulty is rated as ‘Strenuous’, which falls midway between moderate and challenging. To reach Kyanjin Gompa, you’ll need to trek for about 5-6 hours each day, which is doable for novices. To go above Kyanjin, though, you’ll have to hike 6-7 hours’ round trip at a high height, eventually arriving at the legendary Tserko Ri (5000 m).

It takes 4 hours to drive from Kathmandu to Langtang National Park (202Km). Early morning buses go from Machhapokhari, New Bus Park in Kathmandu to Syabrubesi in Langtang National Park, commencing at 7-9 a.m.

Yes, Langtang Valley is open all over years for trekking and Hiking to Local as well as Foreign tourists.

Yes, langtang is absolutely safe to trek and enjoy the beautiful landscape and wildlife.

The region is known for its gorgeous cedar trees and flowers, as well as breathtaking vistas of soaring Himalayan peaks such as the gigantic Shishapangma, one of the 8000-meter summits, Manaslu Massif, Ganesh, Langtang, and Jugal Himal.

Langtang trek is considered to be one of the easiest trek which is about 10-12 days’ trek from Kathmandu.

The Langtang Valley begins just north of Kathmandu, on the Tibetan border. Langtang Lirung (7246m), the highest peak in the vicinity, dominates the valley.

Yes, you can exchange your currency in Nepal with the help of your local tour guide agency.

Yes, you will have internet connection in most of the tea houses, you might have to pay minimal fee to use it but don’t be expecting the fast browsing.

Langtang valley trek is possible and safe for solo/individual hikers because it is a short and moderate trek. The track is not difficult to follow, and there are numerous signposts along the way. 

No, ATMs and banks are not available on the Langtang Valley trip; therefore, you must bring Nepali cash from Kathmandu.

The cost for langtang trek ranges anywhere between $750- $999 depending on the way you travel and accommodation you stay in. The package includes your stay, dining and other necessary expenses.

Guide to Langtan isn’t Mandatory however trekking to any routes in the place you are not familiar with is no less risky so we recommend hiring a professional guide for better travel experience.

Langtang Treks takes about 9 to 12 days from Kathmandu. We recommend you take at least a day or two in leisure just in case of bad weather or any unforeseen situations. 

Langtang Village is located at 3400 Meters above sea level from the North of Kathmandu and takes about 8 days to reach there.

The Langtang Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the beautiful Langtang Valley and up to the base camp of Langtang Lirung, a 7,227m peak in the Langtang region.

The Langtang Base Camp Trek typically takes about 10-12 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and pace of the trekker.

The Langtang Base Camp Trek is considered to be a moderate trek, suitable for people with some prior trekking experience. The trek involves walking through rugged terrain, steep climbs, and high altitudes, so it is important to be in good physical condition.

The best time to do the Langtang Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, with good visibility and pleasant temperatures.

The maximum altitude reached on the Langtang Base Camp Trek is around 4,984m at the Kyanjin Ri viewpoint.

Yes, you need a trekking permit to do the Langtang Base Camp Trek. You can obtain a permit from the Nepal Tourism Board or through a licensed trekking agency.

There are several teahouses and lodges along the Langtang Base Camp Trek route that offer basic accommodation and meals. You can also choose to camp if you prefer

You will need to bring suitable trekking gear, including good quality hiking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a backpack, and other essentials. It is recommended to bring a first aid kit, trekking poles, and a headlamp as well. A comprehensive packing list can be obtained from your trekking agency.

The Langtang Base Camp Trek is generally considered to be safe, but it is important to take appropriate precautions and follow the guidance of your trekking agency and guides. Altitude sickness is a risk at higher elevations, so it is important to acclimatize properly and be aware of the symptoms.

The maximum altitude reached on the Langtang Valley Trek is around 4,984m at the Kyanjin Ri viewpoint.

The cost of the Langtang Valley Trek varies depending on several factors such as the trekking agency you choose, the duration of the trek, the type of accommodation and meals you prefer, and other additional expenses such as permits, transportation, and equipment rentals. Generally, the cost can range from $500 to $1500 USD.

The highlights of the Langtang Valley Trek include the stunning mountain views, the beautiful Langtang Valley, the Kyanjin Gompa monastery, the diverse flora and fauna of the Langtang National Park, and the opportunity to experience the local Tamang culture and lifestyle.

The Langtang Valley Trek covers a distance of approximately 50-60 kilometers, depending on the specific route and itinerary chosen by the trekker.  

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

A Guide to the Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal

Langtang Valley is one of the most popular shorter trekking options in Nepal. The Langtang National Park wasn’t even on my radar for trekking in Nepal. However, within days of arriving in  Kathmandu , I decided it would be the best introduction to hiking in the Himalayas and I wasn’t wrong.

It may not boast any of the top ten highest peaks in the world like in Annapurna or Sagarmatha National Park, but what it lacks in height it makes up for with genuine down to earth people and a less commercialised feel. The Tamang people of the Langtang region were the most hospitable and friendly I’ve come across in Nepal and I’d go back in a heartbeat.

I hiked the Langtang Valley Trek at the beginning of March, which was just before the main trekking season when it was still relatively quiet. Nepal had seen some of the heaviest snowfall in decades and Langtang was completely covered in it, nothing like the pictures I had seen from a normal trekking season. It meant that it was extremely cold at night and required some trudging through snow on the trails, however, it also made the scenery extra beautiful and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Keep reading for my guide to Langtang Valley from my personal experience on the trail as a solo hiker.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

What you need to know before heading off on the Langtang Valley trek

Before you head off for the Langtang Valley, here’s some essential information that you need to know.

Quick info about the Langtang Valley Trek

• Distance: 60km
• Time: 5-7 days
• Highest point: Kyanjin Ri 4773m
• Difficulty: Moderate-Hard
• Start/end: Syabrubesi, approximately 120km north of Kathmandu
• Trail: Out and back same way
• Permits and fees: TIMS card and national park fees
• Accommodation: Teahouses
• Hiking requirements: Anyone can hike the trail, with or without a guide
• Optional add ons: Gosaikunda Trek or Tamang Heritage Trail for a longer trek

Best time to hike Langtang Valley

There are two main trekking seasons: March-April and October-November . I would advise to try and complete the trek around these months and avoid the wet season in the middle of the year. The dry winter can make for quieter trails, but many teahouses close down and the trail will be snowed in higher up.

If you’re travelling at the start of the trekking season, it’s a good idea to ask around in Kathmandu at your hostel or guesthouse about trail conditions before you set off. When I did the trek at the start of March the trails had only just been declared passable after a very long winter. Some hikers who’d left too early in the season couldn’t make it up to Kyanjin Ri.

Read next: What You Need to Know About Trekking in Nepal

Permit and fees

You will need a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System Card). These can be purchased at the  Nepal Tourism Board office  near Ratna Park. I simply had to fill an easy form out, hand over a few passport photos and pay 2000 rupees (AUD$25) and I was given a green card which I had to keep with me for checkpoints along the trek.

You can also purchase the  National Park fee  in Kathmandu but I was told that I could do that at the Park entrance as well, which I did with no hassles. It costs 3000 Nepali rupees and you’ll have to show your valid TIMS card and passport.

I managed to pack everything that I needed into a 30L backpack, including a sleeping bag. You don’t need a whole lot considering it’s less than a week trek and you’ll be staying in teahouses along the way.

I  hired a sleeping bag  from  Shona’s Alpine Rentals in Thamel for 120 rupees per day (AUD$1.50). The sleeping bag was extremely warm, even on the night that the water in my drink bottle froze!

You can also pick up a Langtang Valley map in many Kathmandu book stores. However, I wouldn’t say it’s overly necessary unless you’re planning on doing something like adding Gosaikunda trek onto the end of Langtang Valley.

Read next: A Guide to Kathmandu

Getting to Syabrubesi

The only way to get to the trailhead is by road. I had read that the hardest part of the trek was in fact the notorious bus ride north of Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. The road is a rough, dirt road that winds its way up towards the mountains and is constantly under reconstruction from landslides (I mean, look at that photo above!). The driver was a madman and I swear he’d made a bet with someone that he would make it to Syabrubesi first, as we overtook even the 4WD jeeps along the way.

The buses depart from near the New Bus Stand , across the Ring Road. There’s really only two companies and both were the same price. I purchased my ticket the day before directly at the counter, which I would highly recommend. The ticket cost 750 rupees (AU$9) and the bus left at 8am from the counter. There’s also the option of shared jeeps, although they’re more expensive and stop less often on the way.

The drive was extremely dusty and, as I was sitting in the front seat near the door, my bag on my lap was covered in a layer of brown dust by the end. The 120km journey took 8 hours to cover (even though I was told to expect around 10)! I emerged from the bus feeling as if I’d actually walked the distance rather than sat in a vehicle. Be prepared!

Syabrubesi town

The trailhead is a small, one street town that has a few hotels and some basic shops. Don’t expect anything like Namche Bazaar in Sagarmatha National Park, although it’s still not a bad place to spend the night before and after trekking.

I stayed at  Old Namaste Hotel . For 600 rupees (AUD$8) per night I got a bed with a private bathroom. The food there was also really good with intermittent WiFi. The lady who owns the hotel was lovely and I sat up with her for hours talking about everything from tourism, to government corruption to the impacts of the 2015 earthquake.

The town was extremely quiet and I was the only one at the hotel for the night. You can easily walk around and ask prices at different hotels, although most looked a similar standard.

There was one ATM in the town when I was there, although it wasn’t very reliable. I would suggest taking as much cash as you think you’ll need plus extra from Kathmandu.

Trek report: Langtang Valley

If you want to know more about my experience on the trail, keep reading for my day by day track notes below.

Day 1: Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel

After crossing the suspension bridge to the old part of town on the other side of the river, the trail becomes more obvious (ask locals if you’re unsure). I could already see the snow capped mountains through the valley and I was excited to think that it wouldn’t take me long to be completely amongst them.

The trail mostly climbed up through forest, following the fluorescent blue river below. I arrived at a small cluster of lodges called Bamboo at 11.15am and I was already hungry for lunch. I stopped for fried rice and some tea at a guesthouse with a pretty view and then continued on upwards.

The rocky trail continued to climb and considering I hadn’t done any proper exercise in months I knew this would really test me. However, I passed quite a few people on the trail, more than I thought I would. Despite leaving after 8am that morning, I managed to arrive at Lama Hotel (the name for the first major village where most people stop for the night) at 2pm, well before most. The man at the first lodge greeted me and I decided to stay there. 

I sat outside in the sun sipping a cup of tea and soon the lodge was full and the owner was turning people away to the next place. As the sun set, the temperature plummeted and everyone huddled inside the dining room where there was a wood fired heater. It was my first experience of the social teahouse dining rooms in Nepal where trekkers from all different countries sit around and chat without the distractions of phones and internet. Not long after finishing my dal bhat though I was in bed asleep, recovering for the next day’s climb.

Distance:  10km   Time:  6 hours   Ascended:  1100m

Day 2: Lama Hotel to Mundu

I decided not to hurry in the morning and didn’t leave until 9am. The trail continued to climb quite ruthlessly with a skinny, rocky trail in some sections. There was less forest coverage as the vegetation started to thin out, a hallmark that I was getting higher. I stopped for lunch early again in a newly built restaurant which had beautiful views of the valley I was walking through. 

After my lunch stop, the trail continued on its pursuit upwards, however, the views suddenly improved. The mountains on either side of the valley now had snow cascading down them all the way to the river below. Still, with the clear skies and strong sun, I was relatively warm when I was moving. However, with such incredible views around me I found myself stopping much more often to take photos.

I began to see some of the remains from the devastating earthquake of 2015. Lodges, homes, farming sheds, all destroyed and left in rubble. Most of the lodges have now been rebuilt or moved, but seeing some of the remains that had been left behind was devastating. I couldn’t help but get a little emotional. One village had been completely flattened and abandoned, looking up I could still see the landslide that had seemingly came crashing down in April 2015 to bury the structures below. It was hard to comprehend. The scenery around me was so beautiful, yet on the other hand, it was obvious that mother nature could also be destructive when it wanted to be.

Just before Langtang village (where most people stop for their second day) I met a lady who had a small shop and lodge. I decided to try the local seabuckthorn juice, a local berry that is incredibly high in vitamins. A couple more trekkers saw me there and also stopped to try the famous juice. As I got up to leave the lady hugged me and said, “Thank you for bringing business here”. It must be tough to rely on tourism and trekkers for a living, particularly when life in the mountains is so unpredictable. 

I arrived in Langtang, a village that had been completely wiped off the valley and rebuilt since 2015. A small memorial is near the trail to mark the victims of the earthquake, which also included many foreign trekkers and their guides. I decided to keep pushing on to the next village which was just another 20 minutes.

Mundu was much less commercialised than Langtang and didn’t boast Wi-Fi and hot showers, but that was okay with me. I saw a fellow trekker who had caught the same bus to Syabrubesi and we stayed at the same lodge for the night. The owners were beautiful people and while the wife cooked us dal bhat, her husband sat at the fire and told us about life in the Himalayas, including their experience during the earthquake.

He had lost a devastating 26 family members down in Langtang village, however, in Mundu just a short distance away they themselves had come away unscathed. They spent three months in Kathmandu before they could return to Langtang Valley and start the process of rebuilding, which took them nearly two years.

Distance:  13km   Time:  6.5 hours   Ascended:  1070m

Day 3: Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa

From Mundu it was a short couple of hours to my final destination for the Langtang Valley trek at Kyanjin Gompa. There was a lot of snow around and the trail had only recently been cleared. I passed some other trekkers coming back and they were raving about the view from Kyanjin Ri, which made me even more eager to get there. 

The valley opened up and there was just a complete blanket of white with soaring mountains towering above in every direction. I climbed up to a newly built hydropower station and crossed a suspension bridge which had amazing views of the valley below and the glacier behind me. Just 10 minutes later I walked up and over a small hill and the village of Kyanjin Gompa was spread out before me in the valley floor.

A trekker that I had passed told me of a lodge that he’d stayed in, a large three storey place with WiFi and showers. As I was heading towards it, a lady stopped and begged me to have a look at her lodge, so I obliged. It was a tiny place with just three rooms and squashed between other surrounding lodges. I decided to stay. I try to avoid the overly commercialised lodges and it turned out to be a great decision. The name of the guesthouse was Dorje Lakpa and the woman spoke little English but was incredibly hospitable.

I decided to try and hike to the glacier viewpoint just past the small monastery. I tried to find the trail but there was so much snow it wasn’t visible. I attempted to just trudge through the snow in the direction my phone was telling me but I kept falling through, once up to my waist and so I gave up. I found a protruding rock instead and sat to just admire the incredible view of the valley. 

I relaxed for the afternoon, trying to keep my fluids up considering I was sitting at 3870m after just three days of hiking. A Dutch girl was also staying at the same place and together we had a great time. The couple who owned the lodge were beautiful people and we had a fun night laughing and talking, trying to learn the Tibetan language and traditional dances. It was experiences like this which made the Langtang Valley trek so memorable.

Distance:  5km   Time:  2 hours   Ascended:  315m

Day 4: Kyanjin Gompa to Kyanjin Ri to Langtang Village

I left just after 8am for Kyanjin Ri, the highest point of the whole trek. The trail started directly from the village and switchbacked steeply for just over an hour to the first viewpoint at 4300m. I was in absolute awe of the view around me but I was concentrating heavily on breathing, sipping water and taking small steps forward. Many people were sitting at the lower viewpoint, content with the view all the way back through the valley we’d all come. I looked up to Kyanjin Ri, another 400m in elevation and just 900m of trail. I could see a couple of people almost at the top and I thought, ‘I’ve gotta have a crack!’.

I pushed on slowly, but surely, stopping every 10 steps or so to let my heart rate settle and my lungs capture more oxygen. The trail was slippery with snow covering much of it and I had to be careful where I placed my foot each time. I kept looking up to see how long I had to go, but progress was slow.

The last few steps were sweet, I had made it even when I began thinking that I wouldn’t. I had the peak to myself and the moment I stopped on the very top and did a 360 degree turn around, I had tears in my eyes. It was the most beautiful place I’d ever seen.

I stayed nearly an hour, soaking in the view and taking photos. I didn’t want to ever leave. However, at over 4700m and with no water left in my bottle I knew I needed to get back down. It was more slippery going down but I was still much quicker, not having to stop to catch my breath anymore. I made it back to the lodge at 1pm, in time for a much needed lunch.

Distance:  4.5km return   Time:  3.5 hours   Ascended:  720m

I had contemplated staying another night in Kyanjin Gompa. However, with many of the other side trips and other hikes such as to Tserko Ri closed due to the snow level, I decided there was no reason to hang around. So after lunch I took off and headed back as far as I could walk.

I managed to get back to Langtang village in two hours and although I wanted to keep walking, it was after 4pm and so I decided to stop for the night. I stayed at a different guesthouse, which was much larger and more commercialised than in Mundu. However, the view from the property was incredible and a nice change.

Distance:  6.5km   Time:  2 hours   Descended:  400m

Day 5: Langtang Village to Syabrubesi

Having made it to Langtang the day before, I realised I could potentially get all the way back to Syabrubesi in one day from there. This meant finishing the trek in just 5 days.

I set off at 8am and moved pretty fast, my legs had quickly become conditioned to the movement and the trail over the previous few days. I made it back to Lama Hotel in no time but stopped in the next village called Rimche for some lunch just after 12pm. I was feeling tired and the sun was hot, the steep downhills had me hiking quickly but it was tough on my legs. 

The local boys at the lodge in Rimche told me they were surveying the area for a potential road construction project in the future. I couldn’t believe it. It would ruin the whole landscape of the valley if a motorable road was ever built, but the boys looked excited. “It’s just a dream,” they told me. Of course, for the locals it meant better access to the outside world.

I kept pushing on, passed Bamboo where I’d stopped for lunch on the first day, over the rocky stairs where I’m sure I lost my headphones on the first day too.

I finally hit the dirt road again and I knew I had just one more hour to get back to Syabrubesi. I was almost limping by this point, dragging my walking pole behind me, absolutely exhausted. I was almost losing the sun behind the valley as I made it to the suspension bridge which took me into town. I took one last glance back through the valley at the snow capped peaks in the distance, I couldn’t believe I’d been completely amongst them just yesterday. 

I arrived at the same hotel in Syabrubesi that I’d stayed before the trek and the lady told me that there was a political strike planned for the next day and so no transport would likely run. So after all that, I’d pushed my body for 8.5 hours for nothing!

Distance:  22km   Time:  8.5 hours   Descended:  2020m

Getting back to Kathmandu

There are bus and jeep ticket counters in the main street of town so it’s easy to get a ticket and see where they leave from. They leave at around 8am and it took almost 10 hours on the way back.

Langtang Valley Accommodation

Most trekking lodges have been either repaired or completely rebuilt since the earthquake in 2015. There are plenty of options to choose from, including smaller villages in between the popular overnight stops on the trail. I was always offered a free room (a few even with a private bathroom) as long as I ate dinner and breakfast there. A simple bed with 1-2 blankets and a pillow is usually all that was in the room, but the beds were always comfortable from my experience. 

In the high trekking season, many lodges and guesthouses will charge between 200-400 rupees (AU$3-5) for a room, although it’s usually negotiable.

The Tamang people are great at marketing and almost every lodge I stayed at passed me a business card of a family member who owned a lodge in the next village. Similarly, many of the locals I passed on the trail would also stop and ask me where I was heading and then proceed to hand me a business card of a cousin, sister or friend of a friend. I actually rarely even bothered to go to one of those recommended lodges as whenever I arrived I found it best to just walk around and have a look myself.

The menus were almost all identical with the standard trekking meals on offer: fried rice, chow mien, fried potatoes, spaghetti, momos and the ubiquitous, dal bhat (similar to an Indian thali consisting of rice with lentil soup and a veg curry, and unlimited refills!).

My meals were pretty repetitive and most days I ate exactly the same thing. I had porridge for breakfast, fried rice for lunch (it was usually the quickest meal for them to make) and dal bhat for dinner.

The meals get pricier as you climb higher, because the teahouses obviously pay more for porters and donkeys to get the products up the valley. Meals cost between 400-700 Nepali rupees (AU$5-8).

Trail navigation

The trail has all been repaired since the earthquake and is well maintained. It’s relatively obvious with few if any junctions where it might be confusing, however, with the heavy snowfall some parts of the trail closer to Kyanjin Gompa were covered in snow. Still, I had no problems navigating my way.

It’s a good idea to have Maps.Me on your phone though, as the trail is clearly marked on there.

A breakdown of how much trekking Langtang Valley cost me all up:

Permit and park fees:  5000 rupees (AUD$65)

Sleeping bag rental:  950 rupees (AUD$12)

Snacks:  1500 rupees (AUD$20) purchased in Kathmandu before leaving

Meals (accommodation included):  11,600 rupees (AUD$150)

Transport:  1200 rupees (AUD$16)

Total: AUD$263 for 8 nights (5 trekking, 3 in Syabrubesi)

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12 comments.

[…] Langtang Valley in Nepal […]

Incredible guide! thank you

Can I ask when you did the trek, and do you know if it’s possible to hire a guide at Kyanjin Gompa to do a sunrise hike to Kyanjin Ri? I’m thinking in the dark and with possible snow coverage on trail it will be difficult for me to navigate. I’m solo trekking. thanks!

I did this trek in early 2019, so some things may have changed. I would imagine it’s definitely possible to hire a guide in Kyanjin Gompa. Many trekkers hire a guide just for a section of trail, so one of the teahouses will definitely be able to help you out! Enjoy!

Hello Mariel, I am Ang from Sherpa Goan a village 1 day before the Langtang. I own a small Homestay named Hello Trekkers Home in Sherpa Goan and also a certified trekking guide and would love to provide you also various informations you would need. Our small place is usually visited by solo trekkers so I would love to welcome you if you pass by. Yet I am in Kathamndu but will be soon going to my place. Thank [email protected]

Hey, thanks for such a detailed guide!

I am planning to do this trek at the end of December this year, but was curious about shortening it by a day — specifically, going from Lama Hotel to Kyanjin Gompa in one shot rather than staying in Mundu. The idea being to free up a day to allow for an extra hike. Do you think this is feasible? Waking up early/hiking with a headlamp isn’t an issue.

Hi Rob, glad it was helpful! It’s definitely doable, as it would be around 18km I think. I’d allow about 9-10 hours depending on fitness level, but you should also consider elevation change. If you’re fairly acclimatised, it will be fine, but otherwise, watch for symptoms and see how you feel on the trail as tbe altitude starts to climb a bit after Lama Hotel. Wish you all the best, you’ll love it!

Well written !! doing the Langtang trek this oct end !! cant wait !! thanks for the info

Hey nice write ups! Sorry for a loaded question, but you seem to have been to all 3 areas we are contemplating – but alas can only pick one! Muldai View, Lower Mustang, Tamang Hertitage – which one?? Kinda get the feeling that Lower Mustang would be more about exposure to different cultures rather than trekking, due to the roads so prob better to jeep it for some of the way with a few side treks – not a bad thing if the villages make it worth it 🙂 Any insight welcome!

Hi John, that’s a tough one! I think Lower Mustang and Tamang Heritage are both more a cultural experience, although the Lower Mustang does have some incredible landscapes that are quite different to elsewhere in Nepal. You could do some exploring around Lower Mustang by road as you say, if you have time. Muldai Viewpoint would be the best option in terms of mountain views, especially if you can also include Poon Hill in that trek. Either way, you’ll love it – Nepal is amazing! Hope that helps.

Thank you very much for that post. We love the Langtang trek and we recommend a stopover in Sherpagaun, between Lama Hotel and Syafru Bensi. Thanks again.

[…] undiscovered jewel in Nepal, the Langtang Valley Trek offers a rare fusion of alpine forests, steep climbs, and snow-capped summits. The path passes by […]

nice information and good article thank you

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Langtang Trek | What You Need to Know to Hike Langtang Valley

Home / Plan Your Adventure / Langtang Trek | What You Need to Know to Hike Langtang Valley

Nepal’s Langtang Valley trek is one of our favourite forgotten jewels of the trekking world. With jaw-dropping mountain peaks, bright rhododendron, tiny villages, Buddhist monasteries, and welcoming locals, the Langtang is sure to solidify your love for Nepal. The earthquake that rocked the country in 2015 devastated the Langtang valley. But the area has now reopened to trekkers and choosing to trek here is an excellent way to help Langtang’s resilient earthquake survivors rebuild their livelihoods.

When is the best time to hike the Langtang Valley Trek?

The best time to trek the Langtang is September to December or March to May .  Clear skies and perfect hiking temperatures create the ideal conditions for trekkers.

How much time does it take to hike Langtang Valley?

The hike is typically completed in 6-10 days , but there are plenty of ways to extend the route if you have more time.

How difficult is the Langtang Valley Trek?

The Langtang Valley Trek is a moderate trek by Nepalese trekking standards. It gains significant elevation, but the elevation is easily spaced out over multiple days on the trail.   Like all treks in Nepal, the Langtang Valley is high elevation and proper acclimatization should be factored in. That said, the highest village lies at 3850m, which is well below the high points reached on either the Annapurna Circuit (5416 m) or Everest Base Camp (5545m) treks. 

 Additionally, Nepal’s teahouse trekking drastically reduces your  packing list  making the elevation and mileage much more manageable than North American trips like the Rockwall trail or Rae Lakes. Not to mention, the potential of having a hot apple pie at the end of a long day! 🙂 

How long is the Langtang Valley Trek?

The one-way trip from Syabru Bensi to Kyanjin Gompa on the Langtang Valley Trek is  ~ 29 KM . Over this distance, the Langtang Valley Trek gains ~3000 meters of elevation and loses ~600 meters of elevation. 

A round-trip (out and back)    hike from  Syabru Bensi to Kyanjin Gompa  and back to Syabru Bensi is ~ 58 KM with about 3600 meters of elevation gain and 3600 meters of loss.  

What permits are required for the Langtang Valley Trek?

To hike the Langtang you’ll require:

• TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) card for 2000 RPS (pick this up in Kathmandu); and
• Entrance ticket to Langtang National Park  (approximately 3390 RPS).

Do you need a guide or porter?

You do not need to hire a guide or porter to trek the Langtang. The trail is easy to follow and navigation is not challenging. Make sure to download a high quality offline GPS app (we like GAIA) to assist with navigation and route finding. 

That said, some people do enjoy to hire a guide for their knowledge and expertise. If you’re looking for a guide seek out a personal recommendation  and never just hire someone you meet on the street.  

Where do you stay and what do you eat on the Langtang Trek?

The incredible thing about trekking in Nepal is that the teahouses in the villages along the way offer basic accommodation and food (namely, a lot of dal bhat!),  This means you can minimize your pack weight as there is no need to carry a tent or food provisions along with you.

Why go on the Langtang Valley Trek vs. Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp?

Most travellers visiting Nepal gravitate towards the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp treks. Langtang has always offered a quieter option with fewer tourists and less infrastructure (there’s certainly no road like the Annapurna Circuit now has). Sadly, Langtang has made its way further off the map after the 2015 earthquake that destroyed lives, homes, and trails. In the three years since the quake, homes have been rebuilt and trails reforged, but the number of trekkers has hardly increased. Trekking here provides an invaluable opportunity to bring income back into a region that is struggling to rebuild. Besides being a quieter trek where your visit can make an important difference for the income of local communities, Langtang is easy to access from Kathmandu. It’s also a lower elevation trek (the highest village is at 3850m), which mitigates the risk of altitude sickness. There are a number of great, basic teahouse options, so you can easily trek this route without a tent.

Whatever you do, DON'T FORGET THIS

In remote areas travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation or medivac is absolutely essential. My former roomate was medivaced to Bangkok from Cambodia after a medical emergency and her travel insurance ended up paying out a six figure sum for the medical bills.

Hopefully, you never need to make a claim, but if you do you’ll be beyond happy you were prepared!   Don’t start your trip without it!  Check out  World Nomads  for a quote* .  

Itinerary for hiking the Langtang Trek

Day 1: travel from kathmandu to syabru bensi.

Catch the bus in Kathmandu in the morning (approximately 550 RPS) to travel the 122 km north to the kicking off point for Langtang – the town of Syabru Bensi. Be forewarned that this bus ride is really quite terrifying, but that’s part of the adventure! It can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours to reach Syabru Bensi by bus. Do be prepared to show your TIMS card and permit along the way. Once you arrive in Syabru Bensi, find a teahouse for the night and tuck into bed early to prepare for your first day of trekking.

Day 2: Syabru Bensi to Lama Hotel

10.5 km | 1400 m elevation gain 400 m loss.

The first day of the Langtang valley trek takes about 6 hours, depending on your pace. The trail crosses the Bhote Kosi River and weaves through oak and rhododendron forests (watch out for animals suddenly coming around the corners!). Beautiful Lama Hotel is a great place to stop for your first night with several good teahouse options.

Day 3: Lama Hotel to (New) Langtang Village

11.5 km | 1200 m elevation gain 200 m loss.

Day 3 takes just over 6 hours and ends 100 metres past the tragic site of old Langtang Village. This is where the devastation of the earthquake was felt the most strongly in the valley. Only a single house survived the landslide caused by the quake in 2015. 175 villagers and 41 foreign trekkers were killed in the village during this tragedy. These names are commemorated on a memorial mani wall where the village once was. Just a short walk up the valley, Langtang Village is being rebuilt. Staying here is an important way to support the earthquake survivors as they rebuild their lives after losing so much.

Day 4: Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa

6.0 km | 400 m elevation gain.

Day 4 takes you to the highest village you can stay at: Kyanjin Gompa. As you reach the higher altitude here, the valley opens up into yak pastures surrounded by towering mountains. It’s only a 4 hour walk, so be sure to take your time and allow your body to acclimatize. The elevation here can be an issue for some people. Kyanjin Gompa is home to an incredible monastery, a yak cheese factory, and a small village. It’s a beautiful place to stay for a few nights and explore the surrounding peaks if you have the time.

Day 5-6: Kyanjin Gompa (with a trip to Kyanjin Ri)

Breathe a sigh of relief as you get to leave your big pack behind at the teahouse you stay at.  Spend  a couple days  exploring this incredible area and use Kyanjin Gompa as your basecamp for these day hikes:

Kyanjin Ri – this popular and worthwhile half-day hike to a  height of 4604m offers incredible vistas of the surrounding area climbing 720m in 2.0 Kilometers (one-way).

Tsergo Ri –  This challenging full day hike to the top of Tsergo Ri  gains 1110 meters of elevation over 5.0 Kilometers (one-way).

Continue up the valley to Langshisha Kharka – Continue up the valley for more spectacular views on this long day hike which gains 450 meters of elevation over 12 KM (one-way). 

Glacier Viewpoint – For an easier option a 2.0 km hike gains 200 meters of elevation for a suberb view of the Langtang Lirung (one-way).

Day 7: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel

17.5 km | 200 m gain 1600 m elevation loss.

The way down to Lama Hotel should take about 5 hours. Your knees will feel the descent and you’ll be thanking yourself for bringing trekking poles to ease the load! Once you get to Lama Hotel treat yourself to some momos or more dal bhat.

Day 8: Lama Hotel to Syabru Bensi

10.5 km | 400 m gain 1400 m elevation loss.

The final day should take around 6 hours to descend, getting you back into Syabru Bensi for a needed early bedtime.

Impact of the Earthquake on Langtang

The 2015 earthquake has had immeasurable repercussions for the communities in the Langtang valley. With a significant amount of infrastructure destroyed and a rapid drop in income with fewer tourists visiting, this area continues to suffer greatly. There are fewer kids in the communities you trek through than there were before the earthquake. This is a result of the local schools destroyed by the earthquake. Families who have the funds to do so, send their children to boarding schools in Kathmandu to get an education. With the only employment opportunities being subsistence agriculture or the now quiet tourism industry in their home villages, a number of these young people won’t return to the area. Those who don’t have the money to send their children to Kathmandu lose out on giving their children an education. With this in mind, trekking to Langtang has never been more important from a sustainable tourism perspective.  For more insight, this beautiful photo story showcases the personal stories of the survivors in Langtang.

What to pack for the Langtang Valley Trek

Essential langtang packing list.

If all you’re planning on doing is hiking we love the  Gregory Focal  or  Women’s specific Facet  which at ~2.5lbs provide a great compromise between barebones ultralight packs and the heavier feature-laden packs! 

If you’e stopping in Nepal as part of a longer trip, the Khmer Explorer Travel Set will be perfect for you. It’s more functional for travel, but has a hip belt and suspension system which make it extremely practical for hiking trips like the Langtang! 

Sleeping Bag

Patagonia’s sleeping bags  are 5 star!!   It’s unbelievably lightweight and packs down small. The  30°F / -1°C  to be perfect for most outings – if it gets colder you can always layer up! Like all Patagonia products, it’s not cheap, but they stand behind their gear and the quality matches the price point. If you spend a lot of time in colder environments they also make a  20°F / -7°C version .  These bags are a worthwhile splurge!

Nalgene Water Bottle

 Use it for water, soup, as a hot water bottle to warm up your sleeping bag. Don’t leave home without your Nalgene .

Water Purification

For purifying water, I’m a huge fan of the  Steripen . It’s light, portable and only takes minutes to purify a liter of water in a Nalgene. Press the button, place the pen in your bottle, and stir for a couple minutes!  

First Aid Kit

The pre-built kits from   Adventure Medical Kits  have served me well on many adventurers. At the end of your trip write down any items you used and replace them so they’re ready for your next adventure. A dd a few ibuprofen, high-altitude medicine into the kit as well.

Warm Mittens or Gloves

Wind / rain shell.

An essential piece for the wind, rain, and snow you might experience on the Langtang trek. Check out the Patagonia Torrentshell   (or Men’s Version   version).

Mountain weather can change fast and rain pants are an absolute lifesaver.   Patagonia Torrentshell Pants in men’s  or  women’s are great and can be  taken on and off without removing your shoes/boots and allowing you to stay comfortable even if you get caught in a sudden downpour. 

Puff / Down Jacket

The Patagonia Nano Puff® Hoody   is a perfect multi-functional item for trekking, everyday, and pretty much anything where you might need a bit of warmth. I’m still looking for an activity it doesn’t work for. They also make the Nano Puff in a men’s version .

Bring a sun hoodie for the Langtang. It helps you cut back on the amount of sunscreen you need, makes your virutally burn proof, and prevents having to reapply. It’s probably the best item I’ve added to my hiking wardrobe!  Check out the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie available in mens  and  womens.

Hiking Shoes or Boots

Make sure they’re broken in first! Check out the La Sportiva Bushidos for a great lightweight shoe ( mens / womens ).

Invaluable if you get stuck walking in the dark or the electricity goes out. The Spot 350 is the way to go with 6 modes including the night vision saving red light! Red light mode takes a minute to get used to, but once you do it’s a total game changer.

Hiking Pants

A couple pairs of great and durable hiking pants are essentials for the Langtang trek.

Merino Base Layer

Stays warm when wet and effectively wicks moisture. Pack a couple of long sleeves and a few short sleeves. One pair of long underwear are great to layer up with!

A pair of Teva’s are great for hanging out at the teahouses and getting out of your hiking shoes.

Hiking Socks

Darn Tough Vermont makes the best hiking socks hands down. They’re guaranteed for life/replaced free of charge and they don’t stink. Really! I typically bring 3 pair. 1 pair for hiking, 1 pair to change into at camp, and a reserve to throw into the rotation as needed. 

Trekking Poles

Poles are great for reducing the strain of long grueling descents and providing extra stability on exposed sections. Both these features you’ll experience on the Howe Sound Crest Trail, so do yourself a favor and get a pair of poles. For a reliable entry level option try these  Black Diamond Poles  or consider upgrading to the  carbon fiber  to save extra weight.

Additional items to pack

• Map / GPS app (we like GAIA )
• Toilet paper
• Small bills/ money
• Journal/book/deck of cards (good for relaxing in the evenings)

*Thanks to the wonderful Lisa Smith for giving us updates on the Langtang trek post-earthquake and allowing us to share her beautiful photos that you see featured in this article.

Disclaimer:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click one of the links and make a purchase we’ll earn a small commission at no cost to you. Just like the travel backpacks we build, we’re very particular . So any products or services we suggest, we test and use ourselves before making any recommendations or endorsements. 

Banana Backpacks Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

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Langtang Valley Trek

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Langtang Valley Trek

Tamang heritage trail, ganesh himal, langtang trekking highlights, langtang region trekking information.

Often visible from Kathmandu city centre, the Langtang Valley treks are some of the most accessible trekking in Nepal .

If the city pollution and traffic wasn’t so off-putting, you could start walking from your guesthouse straight to the mountains.

This accessibility, easy-to-follow trails and lots of lodges has meant the Langtang Valley has always been, alongside Everest and Annapurna, one of the big three independent trekking areas.

The 2015 earthquake caused massive damage and loss of life in and around the Langtang Valley. The beautiful stone wall village of Langtang was buried under a huge avalanche. Today, all the trekking areas have re-opened and once again there are lodges along the routes. But the reminders of the disaster are still there. Where there were yak pastures, pine forests and the village itself, there is now a grey wasteland of rubble stretching for at least two kilometres. Slowly though, even this is fading from sight as vegetation starts to cover the rockfall.

But don’t be put off. This is a beautiful area to trek with high Alpine pastures, rewarding side trips, holy lakes, stunning mountain views, cultural interactions, relatively few other trekkers, and easy and cheap access with no internal flights needed.

Here's my expert guide to trekking in the Langtang Valley.

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The Langtang Trekking region

The best Langtang Valley treks

Top trekking routes in the langtang region.

The Langtang Valley is a good choice for those with limited time, with the shortest routes taking just a week (or even slightly less) including travel time from Kathmandu. There are also many ways of combining treks to create routes lasting several weeks.

Here's my rundown on the best treks in the Langtang Valley area.

Glorious views of the Langtang Valley

Difficulty: Moderate. The trail climbs quite rapidly so there is a risk of altitude sickness.

Trek Duration: 6 days from Syabrubesi but allow another 2-3 days for side trips from Kanjin Gompa.

Max. Elevation: 3,860m

Accommodation: Trekking lodges. Camping required for any overnight trips beyond Kanjin Gompa.

Start/End Point: Syabrubesi

Before the earthquake, this was one of Nepal’s most popular trekking routes. The trails have been repaired or re-routed and trekking lodges reconstructed. And despite the obvious damage this is still one of the most delightful walks in Nepal. The basic trek takes eight days including travel time from Kathmandu, but add in another couple of days for side trips from Kanjin Gompa.

The standard route follows the Langtang river up a steep and narrow valley. On day two the trail passes over the rubble fields under which Langtang village is buried and on day three the valley opens out to arrive at Kanjin Gompa and big views of Langtang Lirung (7,246m), Langtang II (6,581m) and, perhaps the most distinctive mountain in the valley, the pyramid shaped Mt Gangchempo (6,387m). Kanjin Gompa can be a base for many different day and overnight side trips.

Most people go back the way they came but with more time it’s possible to link up with the Gosainkund and Helambu treks.

Trek Duration: Minimum 8 days depending on route options.

Max. Elevation: 4,610m

Accommodation: Fairly simple trekking lodges.

Start/End Point: Syabrubesi/Dhunche or Sundarijal

The most popular add-on to a Langtang Valley trek, and a fantastic short trek in its own right, is this haul up through pine forests where red pandas live to the Hindu holy lakes of Gosainkund. Although you don’t come face-to-face with the high mountains, you do get grandstand views of the Langtang and Ganesh ranges, as well as crossing the often snowbound and challenging Laurebina La (4,610m).

There are a number of different approach routes to Gosainkund, but to acclimatise it’s best to do the Langtang Valley trek first. Then, from close to the teahouses of Doman, cut across to Gosainkund and descend back to Kathmandu via the Helambu Circuit. Some people go directly to Gosainkund from Dhunche but the elevation gain is great and altitude sickness is common. Starting from Helambu and walking to Gosainkund is a long uphill drag that also invites altitude problems.

Helambu trek

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate.

Trek Duration: 7 days but increasing road accesses means you can cut the trek short at a number of points and bus back to Kathmandu.

Max. Elevation: 3,640m

The closest trek to Kathmandu — it starts from the northern outskirts of the city — takes you on a fairly gentle amble through terraced fields, wild forests, flower meadows and through lots of little villages with views of the mountains. The highest point reached on this trek is 3,640m, so it can be done as a mid-winter trek when higher routes might be snowed in. You can make an enjoyable week-long circuit (a good option for those with little time and/or trekking experience), but most people choose to use Helambu either as a walk in or out route to Gosainkund and the Langtang Valley.

However, be aware that doing this will involve crossing into Helambu via high-altitude passes at either Laurebina La (4,610m) or the very challenging, sometimes dangerous and often snowbound, Ganja La (5,106m). Trekking on these routes involve steep climbs and big changes in altitude, posing a real risk of AMS.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days.

Max. Elevation : 3,300m

Accommodation: Homestays.

This route aims to highlight the culture of the Tamang people as much as the mountain scenery. It’s a real community project with money generated from trekkers going into local development projects and trekkers being hosted at night by families in their village houses.

The trail starts from Syabrubesi and is a five to six-day loop close to the border of Tibet. Highlights are the pretty Tamang village of Gatlang, the hot springs at Tatopani, and the fine mountain views over the Ganesh and Langtang range from Nagthali Ghyang. The highest point is 3,300m, so this is a good mid-winter trek when higher routes might be snowed in and it also suits those with limited time.

The Tamang Heritage Trail is very easily combined with the classic Langtang Valley trek. For those with more time, it’s possible to add in Gosainkund and the Helambu treks to make for three weeks of hiking.

Difficulty: Very strenuous and dangerous. People have died attempting this crossing.

Trek Duration: 4 days from Kyanjin Gompa.

Max. Elevation : 5,106m

Accommodation: Camping only.

Start/End Point: Kyanjin Gompa/Tarke Ghyang

The most challenging and dangerous trek in the Langtang region is the crossing of the high (5,106m) Ganj La pass, which links Kyanjin Gompa at the head of the Langtang Valley with Tarke Ghyang on the Helambu Circuit. This should only be attempted by very experienced trekkers with a good support team. You will need camping equipment, a guide who knows the route well, ropes, ice-axes and crampons.

There are no facilities along the route. Note that the pass is, at best, only open between October and November and March to May, but even during these months it’s often snowbound and impassable. Make sure you have a back-up plan in case the pass is closed. Avalanches are a very serious risk on the approach to and from the pass.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trek Duration: 2 weeks

Max. Elevation: 3,842m

Start/End Point: Syabrubesi/Tripura Sundari

Named after Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu god of fortune, Ganesh Himal lies directly between the Manaslu and Langtang ranges, and is one of the great unknowns of Nepalese trekking. With stunning mountain scenery, attractive and welcoming villages, hot springs, waterfalls and a genuine sense of being well off the beaten track, the Ganesh region really has a bit of everything — except crowds of other trekkers.

A handful of homestays and trekking lodges have started to open up, but for now the trails are still largely empty. Because formal accommodation is still so scarce, an organised camping trip is the best way to tackle this trek.

There are a couple of different trekking routes in the Ganesh region which you can access from Manaslu and the Tsum Valley in the west, but the standard trail starts from Syabrubesi and follows the Tamang Heritage Trail to the gorgeous village of Gatlang before crossing the Pansang La pass (3,842m).

The Langtang area has it all. Start walking from Kathmandu and before you know it, find yourself in a tranquil mountain village, breezing through flower meadows, picnicking in the shade of pine trees, crossing rushing rivers, and a snowbound pass, and standing atop a minor Himalayan peak.

Kanjin Gompa day trips

The small village of Kanjin Gompa (3,860m) at the head of the Langtang Valley, might be the official end point of the Langtang Valley trek but in truth this is where the fun really starts. Numerous day and overnight trips fan out from the village. You can make the almost obligatory hike up to the Kyanjin Ri viewpoint (4,600m) for sensational views, or have a rollicking day’s adventure to the glaciers and yak pastures of the Lirung Valley. A bigger challenge is the long and exhausting day trip to the Tsergo Ri viewpoint at 4,984m, or, for the adventurous, an overnight camping trip to the summit of Yala Peak, which at 5,500m often requires ropes, crampons and an experienced guide.

Gosainkund Lake

The holy lake of Gosainkund (4,400m) has a black rock sticking out of it that Hindus believe is the head of Shiva, and the lake attracts scores of Hindu pilgrims particularly over the August full moon. Like any good pilgrimage, the trek to Gosainkund is a challenging one involving a high pass crossing and memorable scenery. Once at the lake there are a number of side trips to other lakes and high viewpoints.

Helambu and the Tamang Heritage Trail offer a delightful combination of mountain views and pretty villages. The latter offers a real insight into local life thanks to an exciting tourism-based community initiative in which trekkers can stay as guests in village houses, and traditional dances and events are laid on. Both these treks are (for the Himalayas) fairly low level with little risk of altitude-related problems.

Ease of access

The Langtang area offers the most accessible trekking in Nepal. Take a taxi across Kathmandu to the Shivapuri National Park and start walking the Helambu Circuit within an hour of leaving your guesthouse. If you’re heading straight to the Langtang Valley, Ganesh Himal or Tamang Heritage Trail, a day’s bus ride from the city will get you to the trailheads.

Exploration

Don’t think that because the Langtang region is so popular there’s no adventure left. Grab some tents and a guide in Kanjin Gompa (or bring them from Kathmandu) and walk for a day or so further up the Langtang Valley to Langshisha Kharka and towards the Langtang glacier, and you’ll feel as if you have the Himalayas all to yourself. The nearby Ganesh Himal is perhaps the most overlooked range in the Nepalese Himalayas. You could trek here for days without meeting another foreigner.

Apart from the TIMS card, no special permits are required for the treks in this area. The Langtang, Gosainkund, Ganj La and Helambu treks all enter the Langtang National Park for which there is a Rs 3000 entry charge. The Helambu trek also enters the Shivapuri National Park for which there is a Rs 500 entry fee.

The best time to trek the Langtang trails is from October to April. It can get very cold in December and January but lodges remain open and the trails are quiet. In April, flowering rhododendron add a palette of red and orange to the slopes. Few people trek here in the monsoon but during the Janai Purnima festival during the August full moon, thousands of Hindu pilgrims (including lots of sadhus and other holy people) make their way to the holy Gosainkund lakes to bathe. This makes for an interesting experience for those who aren’t bothered by the lack of mountain views.

The region suffered very badly in the earthquake but all the trekking trails have been repaired and trekking lodges rebuilt. Camping gear is only required if you’re exploring the Ganesh Himal, attempting the Ganj La pass, or heading further up the Langtang valley from Kyanjin Gompa. However, for safety and enjoyment reasons, a guide is a good idea on all these treks.

Access to this area from Kathmandu couldn’t be easier. Simply hop on a bus in central Kathmandu and by the end of the day you’ll be in Syabrubesi or one of several other trailheads. There is no scheduled air access to the area.

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Kyanjing Village view on Langtang Circuit Trek

Gosaikunda Lake on Annapurna Circuit Trek

Langtang Circuit Hiking Trail

• You are here:
• TREKKING IN NEPAL
• LANGTANG TREKKING

LANGTANG CIRCUIT TREK

• DURATION 16 Days
• DIFFICULTY-LEVEL Fairly Strenuous
• GROUP SIZE 1-14
• MAX ALTITUDE 4610
• Sightseeing tours of UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu

A scenic drive to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu

Trek through Langtang National Park

Get to see the culture and tradition of the Locals

Visit Kyanjin Gompa & hike to Tserko Ri

Explore the holy Gosaikunda Lake

Cross Lauribinayak Pass

Traverse through the fine villages of Helambu

Witness stunning Himalayan mountain views and gorgeous landscapes

Trip Overview

Langtang Circuit Trek is an adventurous journey that traverses the beautiful Langtang region, ascends to the holy Gosaikunda Lake, and ends in the serene Helambu region.

Langtang circuit trek is one of the most beautiful routes in the Himalayas and offers breathtaking landscapes, huge glaciers, stunning snow-capped Himalayan Mountains, and the vibrant culture of the locals. Located north of Kathmandu valley, one can quickly access the trail. Despite being close to Kathmandu, not many trekkers are well aware of the phenomenal beauty and adventurous trail that the Langtang region have to provide, therefore, only a handful of travelers trek here. And because of that, the trail is relatively less crowded than other famous trekking trails in the Himalayas.

Moreover, Langtang Circuit Trek is also a great alternative to the famous  Annapurna Circuit Trek . The trail is challenging, goes through picturesque villages, leads you to the holy Gosaikunda Lake , and crosses the Lauribinayak Pass (4,610 m). We also have added the pristine routes of the Helambu region in the trek. During the trek, you will get to see the lifestyle and culture of Tamangs & Sherpas.

Trekking through dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron, you pass by Langtang village and ascend to Kyanjin Gompa. The trail then takes you to Sing Gompa via Thulo Syabru and climbs to the Gosaikunda. Following a steep and rugged path, you reach the top of Lauribinayak Pass and descend to Kutumsang via Ghopte. Further, the trail drops down to Chisapani through Shivapuri National Park , and a short drive from Sundarijal leads you back to Kathmandu.

Major Attractions of Langtang Circuit Trek

Sightseeing in Kathmandu

There are many monuments in Kathmandu worth visiting. For your sightseeing, we have selected a few close and famous ones. After having breakfast, you meet with the tour guide in your hotel lobby and begin driving towards the places like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The guide will brief you about the monuments and show you Nepali art & architecture.

Syabrubesi is the starting point of the Langtang Circuit Trek. 7 to 8 hours long drive from Kathmandu will take you there. The views along the drive are beautiful. In the blink of eyes, you will find yourself out of the chaos of the city into the tranquil outskirts. Lush green hills, small settlement areas, and terraced fields keep you accompany during the drive.

The trail goes through the Langtang National Park , home to wildlife like Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, red panda, serow, ghoral, and many others. More than 250 species of birds reside in this village and the vegetation range from subtropical to perennial ice. Most of the route goes through dense forests of pine, rhododendron, oak, bamboo, etc, along with green meadows.

During the trek, you go through many small and big villages, which are mostly resided by Tamang. This community of people is said to be the descendants of the Tibetans. Their language, dress, culture, and practices are closely tied with Tibetan Buddhism. Get to see unique craftsmanship and precisely carved wooden porches of the locals. As the trek involves the guesthouse stay, you can closely see the lifestyle of the locals as well.

Kyanjin Gompas is one of the oldest monasteries in the Himalayas, built more than 600 years ago. The monastery is located at 3,870 meters and offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Kyanjin Gompa is closely tied with Tibet, and the paintings inside the gompa are bought centuries ago from there. You can also see numerous butter lamps, prayer flags, statues, and antiques in the gompa.

Tserko Ri (4,984 m) is a viewpoint that offers gorgeous sunrise and breath-taking scenery. The route ascends following a steep ridge side to the top of the viewpoint, marked with several prayer flags. Hiking up to this point is also good acclimatization.

Gosaikunda Lake is situated at 4,380 meters and surrounded by 108 different lakes around its vicinity. It is an alpine freshwater lake and part of the Ramsar site. Beside it, there are three other holy lakes around it - Parvati Kund, Bhairav Kunda, and Dudh Kunda. According to Hindu mythology, Gosaikunda Lake is the abode of Shiva and Gauri. Moreover, the origin of this lake is also directly related to Samundra Mantha, which is a great event as per Hindu scriptures.

The trail from Gosaikunda ascends towards Lauribinayak Pass at 4,610 meters. The pass is difficult to cross and involves steep climbing. Likewise, the route is rocky and needs proper guidance. Upon reaching the top of the pass, you get to see jaw-dropping views of the Himalayan Mountains, valleys, and glaciers.

Refers as the humble heaven in the Himalayas, the Helambu region is resided by Hyolmo people. This region has got highland villages. On the way, you pass by villages like Ghopte, Tharepati, Magin Goth, Kutumsang, Gul Bhanjyang, Pati Bhanjyang, and Chisapani. The trail is beautiful and calming.

On Langtang Circuit Trekking, you get to see many snow-clustered mountains like Langtang Lirung (7,234 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Mt. Gangchempo (6,387 m), Dorje Lhakpa (6,966 m), Shishapangma (8,013 m), Yala Peak (5,520 m), Ganja La Peak (5,844 m), Naya Kanga (5,846m), Kimsung (6,781 m), Yansa Tsenji (6,575 m), and many others. Similarly, the trail also offers stunning views of glaciers and lovely waterfalls.

Day 1: ARRIVE AT KATHMANDU AIRPORT & TRANSFER TO HOTEL

Depending upon your landing time, our airport representative will be at the Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome you. He will take you to the hotel and assist you in check-in.

The rest of the day is free. You can explore the nearby areas of the hotel and dine as per your desire.

Day 2: FULL DAY HISTORICAL TOUR IN KATHMANDU

Today is an exciting day ahead of you, full of exploration and sightseeing. After having breakfast, you will meet with the English-speaking tour guide and driver in your hotel lobby.

There are many tourist sites in Kathmandu, and visiting all of them in one day Kathmandu tour is not possible. Therefore, you will be exploring a few of them, like Swayambhunath, Boudhnath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These places will showcase the culture, art, and architecture of Nepal.

Day 3: DRIVE FROM KATHMANDU TO SYABRUBESHI

Take a long scenic drive from Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek, Syabrubesi. The drive goes northwest of Kathmandu valley and offers beautiful views of lush green hills, rivers, terraced fields, and small villages.

From Trishuli Bazar onwards, the trail gets a little bumpy and climbs to Dhunche. Further, driving on a downhill road, you reach Syabrubesi for the night stay.

• Guest House
• Syabrubensi

Day 4: TREK FROM SYABRUBESHI TO LAMA HOTEL

Today is the first day of the trek, and you cross the Bhote Koshi River and Langtang River. You walk through dense forests and terraced fields. The trail then passes by a landslide-prone area and climbs to Bamboo.

From here, you gradually ascend to Rimche and continue trekking through remote villages. Along the way, you might spot wildlife like red panda, blue goat, Himalayan tahr, and rare birds.

Day 5: TREK FROM LAMA HOTEL TO LANGTANG VILLAGE

From Lama Hotel, the route moves along a river and lush green forests. The trail then ascends through dense forests. You can see excellent views of snow-capped mountains on the way to Langtang village.

Further, the trail gets narrow and takes you to Ghora Tabela. Register the permits in the army check post and continue trekking. Cross the river and pass by prayer wheels before reaching Langtang village.

• Langtang village

Day 6: TREK FROM LANGTANG VILLAGE TO KYANJING GUMPA

The route gradually ascends through isolated villages and green meadows. On the way, you can see stunning panoramas of snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Cross numerous streams and a glacial moraine. You will soon reach Kyanjin Gompa for the night stay.

• Kyangjin Gompa

Day 7: REST AT KYANJING & EXCURSIONS AROOUND

An extra day in Kyanjin Gompa allows your body to acclimatize and explore around the village. Today, you will go on a hike to Tserko Ri (5,450 m), from where you can see fantastic views of the Langtang Range, glaciers, and breath-taking scenery.

Later, you will also visit an ancient monastery and a cheese factory. There is also an option to hike to Langshisha Kharka.

Day 8: TREK FROM KYANJING GUMPA TO LAMA HOTEL

Leaving Kyanjin Gompa behind, you begin trekking on a downhill route back to Lama Hotel. The trail goes through small villages and dense forests, crossing suspension bridges over rivers. Likewise, the views along the trail are phenomenal.

Day 9: TREK FROM LAMA HOTEL TO SYABRUGAUN

Have a warm breakfast and begin trekking towards Syabru Gaon. The trail descends along the landslide-prone area. Further, you will follow an uphill route that leads to Syabru Gaon for the night stay.

You can see superb views of Langtang Lirung and the Tibetan Himalayan range on the way.

• Syabru Gaon

Day 10: TREK FROM SYABRUGAUN TO SING GUMPA (CHANDANBARI)

From Syabru Gaun, the trail ascends steeply towards Dursagang (2,660 m) and continues to Foprang Danda (3,200 m). You can see beautiful views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and other Tibetan mountains on the way.

Further, trekking through lush forests of oak, hemlock, and rhododendron forests, you reach Sing Gompa to spend the night.

Day 11: TREK FROM SING GUMPA (CHANDANBARI) TO GOSAIKUNDA

Today, you will begin trekking early in the morning. The trail gradually ascends to Lauribinayak. You will ascend on a rugged and steep path, enjoying majestic views of Mt. Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Langtang Lirung, and Tibetan mountains.

Further, passing by a few huts, you cross a small ridge and reach Gosaikunda Lake. It is a holy lake. You can see many other lakes around.

• Gosaikunda Lake

Day 12: TREK FROM GOSAIKUNDA TO GHOPTE VIA LAURIBINAYAK PASS

From Gosaikunda onwards, the trail descends to a lake. You walk along the northern shore of the lake and follow an uphill route that gradually ascends to the Laurebina La Pass.

The trail gets steeper as you approach the pass. Enjoy the breath-taking landscape from the top of the pass and further descend towards Ghopte. The trail passes by Phedi and crosses a bridge.

Day 13: TREK FROM GHOPTE TO KUTUMSANG

The trail today is a little challenging. Walking through groves of juniper, pine, and rhododendron, you pass by isolated areas. The trail takes you to Tharepati, and you drop down to the western slope of a ridge.

Passing by a large meadow, you reach Magin Goth (3,265 m) and then Kuala Bhanjyang (3,335 m). From here, a downhill trail takes you to Kutumsang for the night stay.

Day 14: TREK FROM KUTUMSANG TO CHISAPANI DADA

The trail today further ascends to a pass and descends by following a steep path to Gul Bhanjyang (2,140 m). The trail then ascends to Thorong Danda (2,500 m) and leads you to chipping village.

Further, descend to Pati Bhanjyang (1,760 m) and trek towards Chisapani Danda.

Day 15: TREK FROM CHISAPANI TO SUNDARIJAL & TRANSFER TO HOTEL IN KATHMANDU

After having breakfast, trek and reach the Shivapuri National Park checkpoint. The trail then descends and passes by water reservoirs and large water pipes before reaching Sundarijal.

From here, you will drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying outskirt views. The rest of the day is free to explore. In the evening, meet with the team members over farewell dinner.

Day 16: TRASNFER TO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FOR YOUR DEPARTURE FLIGHT TO HOME

As our trip comes to an end, we would like to thank you for making us your travel partner. You will be flying to your next destination today.

Our airport representative will be at your hotel lobby as per your flight departure time to take you to the airport.

What's Included

• Airport transfers
• 3-night hotels in Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
• Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu as per the itinerary
• Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
• National park entry and Tims permit
• Ground transportation by local bus from Kathmandu- Syaprubesi and Sundarijal to Kathmandu
• 12-night accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the trek.
• A guide and porters (1 porter for every two trekkers)
• Salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transportation, and Insurance for guide and porters
• Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service, which will be paid by your travel insurance company
• Sleeping bag, down jacket, if necessary

What's Excluded

• Nepal entry visa fee
• International flight to and from Nepal
• Travel insurance (compulsory) and entrance fees on day two tour in Kathmandu
• Food (lunch and dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
• Sweet things like chocolate, batteries charge, internet, and phone charge
• Tips for the guide and porters
• Anything not mentioned in the included section

Useful Information

Permits required for langtang circuit trek.

 Some permits are required to do the Langtang circuit trek, which is Langtang national park entry permit and TIMS (Trekkers information management system) permit. We apply and get all these permits for you once you book the trek.

Best Time to go on Langtang Circuit Trek

The Langtang circuit trek is available and doable throughout the year. However, the autumn season (from mid-September till mid-December) and spring season (from the beginning of March until May end) are the best time for the Langtang circuit trek in terms of weather and temperature.

Fitness Required for Langtang Circuit Trek

A moderate level of fitness is required with daily trekking between 3 to 8 hours to do the Langtang circuit trek. You will reach an altitude of 4700m above sea level on this trek so, physical fitness with good health is mandatory to do the Langtang circuit trek.

Accommodation on Langtang Circuit Trek

We provide a 3-star hotel for three nights in Kathmandu and simple lodge/teahouse accommodation for the rest of the 12 nights on Langtang circuit Trek. The rooms are basic, and just a bed with a pillow, and blankets on the trek lodge/guest house, and please remember that some of them are very basic, and a sense of adventure is necessary.

The hotel we provide:

• Hotel in Kathmandu: Hotel Moonlight or similar: 3 nights
• Hotel on Trek Routes- Simple Mountain lodge: 12 nights
• Accommodation will be in double/twin share rooms.
• Hotel upgrade in Kathmandu is available as there are luxury 4 and 5-star hotels available in Kathmandu so, let us know if you want to upgrade the hotels in Kathmandu.

Extra nights in Kathmandu pre or post the Langtang Circuit Trek

Extra nights in Kathmandu pre or post the Langtang circuit trek is available at the US $55.00 per night. Let us know if you will arrive earlier or stay in Nepal later than the scheduled dates and need any extra night, then we book.

Meals & Drinks on Langtang Circuit Trek

Most of the meals are included and provided in the Langtang circuit trek and are taken in lodges. You have breakfast and dinner at the lodges where you stay overnights and lunch at the lodge available along the trail. You have a wide variety of Nepali and Western meals on Langtang circuit trek and drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer), and these drinks are not included. So, you can buy them yourself on the available lodge/guest house.

We advise you to bring water purification pills/medicine while coming for the Langtang circuit trek since you have normal water for free so, you can use the medicine and drink, or you can buy bottled/boiled/safe water to drink.

Transports on Langtang Circuit Trek

We provide private transport for airport transfers and sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and local bus transport from Kathmandu to Syabrubeshi. However, private jeep/van transport is available on request to drive from Kathmandu to Syaprubeshi so, let us know if you want to upgrade the transportation to have a more comfortable drive.

Electricity & Battery Charge in Langtang Circuit Trek

The electricity is available in Kathmandu and in most of the villages of Langtang circuit trek where you can recharge your camera/mobile batteries, and you may have to some fee to recharge on the trekking. And we also strongly suggest you have spare batteries to use in case of unavailability.

Guide and crew member on Langtang Circuit Trek

We provide a tourist guide for a day tour in Kathmandu and a trained trekking guide for the whole trek who handles the logistics and guide you and your team on the Langtang circuit trek.

We also provide Sherpa (assistant guide) when there are eight or more members in the group, and we provide porters to carry your main luggage on the Langtang circuit trek. Thre is one porter for every two members, and a porter carries about 20 - 22KG, which means 10- 11 KG from each trekker.

Equipment List for Langtang Circuit Trek

Equipment is very important to have a comfortable and successful Langtang Circuit Trek in Nepal. So, you need to pack your gear carefully and pack only the things that you need and not anything that you no need for the trek.

To help you to pack your gear for the Langtang Circuit Trek, we have given some list that you should not miss while you are packing.

• Four seasons sleeping bag (we provide you one if you do not have).
• Duffel or Rucksack bag to keep all your gear, which will be carried by the porter.
• Daypack for yourself to keep your things, such as a camera, water, and things that you need for the day.
• A small lockable bag to keep the extra stuff that you do not use on the trek, and this can be kept at the hotel in Kathmandu and get a return after the trekking.
• A down Jacket (we provide you one if you do not have
• Warm wool hat to cover your ears
• A pair of light-weight warm gloves
• T-shirts 2 pieces
• Lightweight thermal tops
• A fleece jacket
• Raincoat (if you are traveling in monsoon time)
• A pair of trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
• Some pairs of warm socks
• A pair of light to medium weight waterproof hiking/trekking boots
• A pair of light trekking shoes or sandals for camp/lodges
• A water bottle
• Head/torch Light
• A medium-size towel
• Walking poles (optional)

Medicines and First Aid Kits

• We recommend consulting with your doctor for medication suggestions to take for these regions.

Miscellaneous but Important

• Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies), these extra passport photos are necessary to obtain the trekking permits.
• Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
• Lip balm at least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
• Sun cream with SPF 40
• Pocket knife
• Water purification Iodine tablets (optional)
• Toiletry kit and be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.

Client Reviews

Best guide for langtang circuit trek.

My wife and I spend 16 days with Escape Nepal in Langtang circuit trek as a singular trek. Overall, the experience was fantastic. Three groups of hikers pulled us aside during the trek to compliment Raj on his knowledge and for helping other trekkers without guides to make the best decisions regarding direction and safety.

Our Porter was awesome. He was an absolute machine. He always had a great attitude, was very personable, had a great sense of humor, and was always looking out for us through the trek. What we appreciated the most was the agency's honesty, especially in our early discussions with Arjun. It is the primary reason we were more comfortable with them up from than the other 11 companies we questioned/ interviewed. For instance, they did not "sugar coat" how the experience would be on the 9-hour local bus ride the first day, like many agencies try to do.

Regarding the sleeping bags and down jackets, we were able to see the actual equipment we would be using upfront. We will gladly recommend Escape Nepal to any friends and family!

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Langtang valley trek, langtang gosaikunda trek, tamang heritage trail, helambu trekking.

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Home » Langtang Guide » Langtang Trek: Trekking Through Nepal’s Scenic Gem

Langtang Trek: Trekking Through Nepal’s Scenic Gem

If you are looking for a short trek easily accessible from Kathmandu Valley, then Langtang Treks are for you. The entire region is covered by Langtang National Park , the first national park of the region covered in diverse fauna and flora. It is a less-traveled trekking destination in Nepal. So, the paths are quiet and untamed.

There are various treks you can go on Langtang region, all equally pleasing and adventurous. This region will take you through the traditional Tamang villages where you can dive into the rich culture and traditions of the local people. The locals are kind and are willing to share their cultural history with you. You will also witness the spectacular mountain range, green valleys, streams, and dense rhododendron forests.

Langtang region was severely affected by the 2015 earthquake , and many of its settlements were damaged including Langtang Valley. This reduces the tourist population in the area. But recently, the area is being reconstructed and repaired . All the routes are restored but still, there are some reminders of the incident. But the region is healing and ready to take you on the most unforgettable journey of your life.

Popular treks in the langtang region

The treks in the Langtang region are easily accessible and can be done in a short period. All the treks are equally thrilling with their own set of adventures. The region offers easy, moderate, and even difficult hikes all of which will take you through the serene surroundings and diverse cultures of local people. Below you can find the most popular treks in the Langtang region.

1. Langtang Valley Trek

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Ride to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu

Day 2: Hike to Lama Hotel

Day 3: Ascend to Mundu via Langtang Village

Day 4: Walk to Kyangjin gomba

Day 5: Rest day- Explore Tserko Ri

Day 6: Walk to Lama Hotel

Day 7: Descend to Syabrubesi

Day 8: Ride from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu

Description

It is one of the favored trekking routes in Nepal. This trek takes you to an altitude of 3798 meters and if you want to enjoy the majestic view from Tserko Ri , you can climb up to 5000 meters . It is also a diverse trek that takes you through remote Sherpa and Tamang settlements along with cultural landmarks. Kyanjin Gomba is a famous Buddhist monastery you will visit on this trek. You will also pass through Langtang National Park .

Langtang Valley is also known as the “Valley of Glaciers” . The trek starts with a long seven hours drive to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu. From Syabrubesi, we trek towards the Lama hotel , passing through dense forests and accompanied by the Langtang range along the way. The next stop is Mundu , passing through Langtang village. The next day, we trek towards Kyanjin Gomba, a renowneBuddhistst monastery in the area. You can trek up to Tserko Ri, the highest viewpoint of the trek from there. From there you will slowly descend back to Syabrubesi following the same route on your way back. It is a moderate trek that anyone with strong physical endurance can go on.

However, due to the massive earthquake in 2015 , the route was pretty damaged which lowered the popularity of this route. Since, the route has been reconstructed and repaired, and although some damages are there, it is still a lovely trek. Langtang Valley Trek is an offbeat trek that will take you through some of the untamed places of the Himalayas of Nepal.

2. Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Day 1 – Drive to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu

Day 2 – Trek to thulo Syabru from Syabrubesi

Day 3 – Trek to Singgomba

Day 4 – Hike up to Gosaikunda Lake

Day 5 – Trek to Ghopte from Gosaikunda

Day 6 – Ghopte to Kutumsang

Day 7 – Trek to Chisapani

Day 8 – Trek and Sundarijal and drive back to Kathmandu

This 8 days trekking route will take you up to beautiful Gosaikunda Lake which is located at an altitude of 4380 meters . The trek is moderate and you will pass through some rocky trails along the way. You get to witness the amazing view of mountain peaks like Hiunchuli, Manaslu, and Ganesh Hima l from the frozen lake. You get to explore 108 small to medium size mountain lakes on this route. The renowned Lauribinayak La pass is also located on this trekking route.

Gosaikunda is a beautiful lake that is located in the Langtang region. It is often referred to as a holy lake by both Hindu and Buddhist mythologies. According to Hinduism, lord Shiva formed this lake by throwing his trident to satisfy his thirst after drinking poison during a fight between demons and gods. It is a beautiful trekking route that takes you through green landscapes, local settlements, dense rhododendron forests, and frozen lakes.

Langtang Gosaikunda trek starts from a seven hours long drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. From Syabrubesi , we ascend towards Thulo Syabru passing through lama hotel, Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gomba , and Tserko Ri Peak . The first part of the trek is similar to the Langtang Valle trek, but from Langtang Valley, we ascend towards Thulo Syabru then Singgomba , and finally to Gosaikunada Lake. The water of this holy lake is said to have healing power. From Gosaikunda Lake, we hike passing Laurebina La high pass, to Ghopte . We descend through dense rhododendron forests to Kutumsang . The next day, we finally reach Sundarijal pass through Chisapani and drive back to Kathmandu .

Autumn and spring season is the best time for this trek. You will feel like you are in paradise while standing on the bank of Gosaikunda Lake surrounded by panoramic mountains. You can witness several glaciers, mountains, lakes, and high passes on this trek. You also get to explore the cultural and traditional significance of the local people.

3. Helambu Trek

Day 1: Drive to Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani

Day 2: Chisapani to Kutumsang

Day 3: Kutumsang to Tharipati

Day 4: Tharipati to Tarkeghyang

Day 5: Tarkeghyang to Shermathang

Day 6: Shermathang to Melamchi Pul Baza

Day 7: Drive back to Kathmandu

Langtang Helambu Trek is a lesser-known trek that will take you through all the highlights of the Langtang region. The highest point of this trekking route is Tharepati located at an altitude of 3960 meters above sea level. You can witness the breathtaking views of mountains such as Manaslu, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Rolwaling, Dorje Lhakpa, and Gauri Shankar.

This is a 7 days low altitude hike that will take you through the dense rhododendron forests, green landscapes, remote villages, and religious landmarks. The trek starts from Shivapuri National Park in Kathmandu. You then pass through various villages and settlements before reaching your destination. You also pass through Shermanthang village , famous for its apple orchards on your way. It is a pleasant and less traveled route that is close to Kathmandu Valley. Langtang Helambu Trek is popular for Buddhist settlement, there are various monasteries on the way.

This trek is not that difficult but still, you have to walk for 7 to 8 hours daily. You should be physically fit to undergo this hike. The best time for this pleasant trek is during the autumn season from September to November or the spring season from March to May . Food and accommodation are fairly basic. You will stay in tea houses and have basic food items. This trek will take you through the most pleasing adventure of your life.

It is one of the most fascinating treks in the Langtang region. You get to walk through pleasant routes covered in dense rhododendron and alpine forests. You also get to explore the rich history and culture of the diverse communities of Tamang and Sherpas. You will also explore various cultural landmarks of the region such as Kyanjin Gomba, Shin Gomba, and other Buddhist monasteries. The Swiss cheese factory is also one of the popular landmarks on this trek.

4. Tamang Heritage Trail trek

Day 1- Drive Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

Day 2- Trek to Gatlang

Day 3 – Trek to Tatopani

Day 4- Cross over Nagthali Gyang to Thuman

Day 5- Trek to Briddim

Day 6- Trek to Syabrubesi

Day 7- Drive Syabrubesi to Kathmandu

It is a commercial trek introduced to offer a glimpse into the rich culture of Tamangs in the Langtang region by the tourism ministry in Nepal. Langtang region is not as popular as the Everest and Annapurna region , so to increase the popularity and elevate the tourism of this region, this trail was opened. The best time to explore this trek is during autumn or spring season, as the weather is clear and it is the perfect trekking condition.

This wonderful trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu Valley to Syabrubesi , a beautiful village inside Langtang National Park . Then we trek through a beautiful Tamang village Gatlang, a major highlight of his trek. Passing through the hot springs in Tatopani, we cross over Nagthali Gyang . We can view spectacular mountain peaks from Nagthali Gyang like Mt. Ganesh, Langtang II, Langtang Lirung, and so on. From there we descend passing through Thuman village , Briddim, to Syabrubesi and drive back to Kathmandu

Tamang Heritage Trail takes you through the remote and traditional villages of the Langtang region showcasing the tradition and culture of the Tamang people. Tamangs are originally from Tibet and settled in the Langtang region ages ago. So their traditions and customs are similar to Tbetians. They have a long history and significance in this region. They follow Buddhism as a religion. So, the route is filled with monasteries, Chortens, Gombas, and colorful prayer flags. Tamnags are also well known for their kind nature and hospitality.

The route is beautiful surrounded by scenic views and its rich cultural significance. It is an easy, low altitude 7 days trek. The highest point of the trek is not beyond 2400 meters . This trek is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of the local people. You will also get to explore religious landmarks and learn about the life of the Tamang community in the region. Also if you want to expand your trek, you can include Gosaikunda and Helambu trek on your itinerary.

5. Ganja La Pass Trek

Day 01: Kathmandu to Dhunche

Day 02: Dhunche to Syabru village

Day 03: Syabru village to Lama Hotel

Day 04: Lama Hotel to Langtang village

Day 05: Langtang Village to Kyangjin

Day 06: Rest day at Kyangjin gomba

Day 07: Kyanjing gomba to Ngegang

Day 08: Ngegang to Keldang via Ganja La

Day 09: Keldang to Dukpu

Day 10: Dukpu to Tarkeghyang

Day 11: Tarkeghyang to Shermathang

Day 12: Shermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar and Drive to Kathmandu

It is the most challenging and dangerous trek in the Langtang region. You have to cross Ganja La Pass at an altitude of 5122 meters above sea level on this 12 days trek. It is really hard to cross this snow-covered high pass because of extreme weather conditions and its tricky location.

Langtang Ganja La Pass trek starts with a scenic seven hours drive from Kathmandu Valley to Syabrubesi. From there the trail heads up to the beautiful Langtang Valley . We also visit Kyanjing Gomba, a popular Buddhist monastery in the Langtang region. From there we hike up to Tserko Ri, which showcases the amazing views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks like Langtang Lirung, Kimshung, Yansa Tsenji, and so on. We cross the difficult Ganja La Pass to reach the Ganja La Phedi. While descending, we pass through Keldang, Dukpu, Tarkeghyang, and Shermanthang to Melamchi Bazar . From there we drive back to Kathmandu

Experienced trekkers should only undergo this trek as it is very demanding. It is also a technical hike , so you need to carry the necessary equipment. The route is less traveled because of its difficulty level, a guide would be really helpful to navigate through the difficult trails. Also, there are chances of avalanches at such high altitudes. The pass is not even accessible during the winter or off-season period, the best time to visit is between October, November, March, April, and May.

Even though the trek is challenging, it is equally captivating. You get to witness the gorgeous views of snow-peaked tall mountains, green hills, lush forests, rhododendrons spread around, and the rich fauna and flora of the region. Along with the breathtaking beauty, the route also showcases the widespread cultural diversity. You get to pass through traditional villages and immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. This route will take you through the unforgettable moments of your life.

6. Naya Kanga Peak Trek

Day 01: Drive to Dhunche from Kathmandu

Day 02 : Trek to Thulo Syabru.

Day 03: Trek to Lama Hotel

Day 04: Trek to Lang tang

Day 05 : Trek to Kyangjin Gomba

Day 06: Rest day in Kyangjin

Day 07: Kyangjin to Ngegang

Day 08: Trek to Base Camp/High camp

Day 09: Summit Naya Kanga; overnight in Base Camp.

Day 10: Trek down to Ngegang

Day 11: Trek to Dukpu

Day 12: Trek to Tarky-Gyang

Day 13: Trek to Sharmathan / Kakani Danada

Day 14: Kakani to Melamchi Pul Bazaar and Drive back to Kathmandu.

Naya Kanga is one of the popular peaks of the Langtang Region, situated to the west of Ganja La Pass. It is also commonly known as Gangachuli . It is at an altitude of 5844 meters . It is a stunning peak that offers panoramic views of Langtang Valley, glaciers, tall mountains, and green landscapes.

Naya Kanga Peak trek is an exciting thrilling adventure to the Himalayas of Nepal. It is 14 days trek that starts with a six to seven-hour-long drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche . From Dhunche you will follow a quiet trail to Thulo Syabru. From Thulo Syabru, you need to ascend towards the lama hotel passing through several forests and streams along the way. Next, you will follow a long trail to Langtang village. From there, you will hike to Kyanjin Gomba , then Ngegang , and finally, you will reach the summit of Naya Kanga . You will slowly descend back, following through Ngenga, Dukpu, Tarky-Gyang, Sarmatthang, and finally to Melamchi Bazar , from where you can drive back to Kathmandu.

You should have some climbing experience for this trek. The route to Naya Kanga Peak is pretty straightforward but you have to pass through some steep paths and cross a challenging Ganja La pass to reach the summit. The best time for this trek is during autumn and spring as the weather will be clear and the trek will be pleasant. From the top of the peak, you can witness several mountains like Pemthan Ri, Shisapangma, Langtang Lirung, and so on.

What do you need to know about trekking in Langtang region?

Although the treks in the Langtang region are pretty accessible, you need to keep some things in mind while you explore this region. The most important is to be on top of all the permits you will require. For the Langtang region, you will need a TIMS card. Also as you will, pass through Langtang National Park for many of your treks in the region like the Langtang Valley trek, Gosaikunda Trek, Ganja La, Helambu etc, you will need a Langtang National Park permit. You will also require a S hivapuri National Park permit for Helambu Trek.

Apart from permits, you should also keep in mind the time, you visit the region. The best time to visit is between the Autumn and Spring seasons . The weather is clear and it is the most favorable time for trekking. Also during the August season, you can witness the major Hindu ritual at Gosaikunda Lake. Millions of Hindus travel to the Gosaikunda river during Janai Purnima full moon to take bathe in the holy water of the lake. You should also keep in mind hiring guides and porters, travel insurance, gear and equipment, and mainly the availability of food and accommodation before your hike.

You may also like:

• How to Reach Langtang from Kathmandu
• Hire a guide and porter for Langtang Valley trek
• Langtang Trek Difficulty, Is It Hard?

Langtang National Park

• 1.1 Settlements
• 10 Stay safe

Langtang National Park [dead link] is a national park in the Himalayas in northern Nepal .

Understand [ edit ]

The park was established in 1976 as the first Himalayan and fourth national park in Nepal. It covers 1,710 km 2 (660 sq mi), with a 420 km 2 (160 sq mi) buffer zone, and is linked with the Qomolangma National Nature Preserve in Tibet . The highest peak is Langtang Lirung at 7,245 m (23,770 ft). It has rich biodiversity with vegetation ranging from tropical forests below 1,000 m (3,300 ft) altitude to alpine scrub and perennial ice.

Buffer zone management is a joint venture between the park office and the local communities, with local communities receiving part of the park revenue, to ensure sustainability.

The climate is relatively dry, with snow locally in January–February. The monsoon period is June to August. The autumn is regarded the best period to visit. In August there is a festival at the Gosainkunda lake, with thousands of Hindu pilgrims. In September there is a spectacular display of flowers. Yak and Chauri herds, which ascended to avoid the summer heat, return to lower pastures. In peak winter, trails are blocked and the lodges are closed. In spring the rhododendrons flourish.

Settlements [ edit ]

• 27.9735 85.9628 1 Kodari is a town in Langtang . It is also the border crossing into Tibet , China . The town of Dram is located on the Chinese side of the border.
• 27.98 85.93 2 Tatopani is a town in Langtang . It is 4 km south of Kodari and the Tibet Border crossing. There are hot springs located here which is what the town is named after (Tato is hot, pani is water).

Get in [ edit ]

The park is just 32 km (20 mi) from the Kathmandu Valley . It spans parts of the Nuwakot , Rasuwa , and Sindhupalchok districts in the southern mountainous terrain of the Nepal-China (Tibet) border.

By bus [ edit ]

Direct bus from Kathmandu or by changing at Barabise to Kodari, this will take about 9 hours to travel the 111 km distance.

Fees [ edit ]

The entrance fee to the park is Rs. 3,000 for a single entry (2018). If you are going on a trek you need a TIMS card .

Get around [ edit ]

There are three main trekking routes (see Trekking in Nepal ), which cover much of the park (and the southern Helambu region), with possibility to explore trailside wilderness.

Taxis [ edit ]

Taxis congregate around the Nepal Customs and Immigration office in Kodari and will take you to Kathmandu in 4 hours.

See [ edit ]

• vegetation, wilderness, hilltop views
• cultural sites, such as in Langtang village, Melamchighyang, Tarkeghayang and Shemathang
• The hot springs located near the north end of Tatopani village.
• Towards the south of the village of Tatopani there is a shrine with prayer wheel located up the hillside.

Do [ edit ]

The park offers hiking of different difficulty, duration ranging from 3 days to 3 weeks.

Eat [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ], sleep [ edit ].

There are locally operated hotels, lodges, and campgrounds along the trekking routes.

There are many budget places along the road in Tatopani.

• New Family Guesthouse , Tatopani-4, Sindhupalchok , ☏ +977 11-690245 . Check-out: 12:00 . Located just downhill from the entrance to the hot springs. Rooms overlook the village and the river with Tibet on the other side. Cold showers only. There are Western toilets, all the plumbing leaks however. Beds are hard cotton mattresses, thick blankets for when it gets cold. Rs. 800-1200/night .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Do not hike alone.

Mind altitude sickness especially when ascending above about 3000 m (10,000 feet), and risk of dehydration.

Some trails are rocky and slippery after rain or frost. Do not stop while crossing stone fields, but watch out for falling rocks.

In remote areas one has to be self sustaining. There are no medical facilities in most of the park, carry an extensive first aid pack. Telephone facilities are available at Singh Gompa and at major settlements in Helambu.

Hiring local guides is strongly recommended on some routes.

Go next [ edit ]

From Kodari crossing into China requires you to cross the Friendship Bridge where you will a custom building on the Chinese side of the bridge. After immigration, you will find 5 km of mountain road before you reach Chinese border town of Dram . A cab ride from the border to Zhangmu usually cost ¥10 per person, with 4 or more share the cab. You can also walk and the other is to hitch-hike. You will also find baggage porters, charging an average of Rs. 40 per porter, who will carry your baggage across the no-man's land. Be aware that is it uphill the whole way!

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