Langtang Gosainkunda Trek- 14 days

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Difficulty

Altitude of Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek takes you to higher altitudes. The maximum height is Gosaikunda Lake, which is approximately 4380m/14370ft. The Gosaikunda Trek starts from Syabrubesi, about 1,550 meters (5,085 feet) above sea level. You can get altitude sickness while you are high, so it is advised that you get used to it gradually.

Walking

This Langtang Gosaikunda trek has moderate to strenuous levels of difficulty in physical activities. Each day, a total of 5 to 7 hours of walking is done, corresponding to the 10 to 15 kilometres of walking distance. This could make the trek rather strenuous for some people since the paths, at times, are flat and steep up or down a hill. Sections around Gosaikunda Langtang Trek are comparatively rocky and complex in terms of pathways.

Climate of Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda weather may be unpleasant most of the time, especially during the season. The recommended months to visit Gosaikunda Lake are March to May and September to November for relatively mild, cool, dry weather. Winter is cold and freezing, especially in the highlands; snow makes the terrain slippery and sometimes icy.

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Route

The terrain is varied, and it passes through forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes. Syabrubesi Lama Hotel is the first destination of the trek, followed by Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, and then Gosaikunda Lake. This means that the trails may be complicated. In some areas, they are steep, and in some areas, they are narrow, thus calling for caution when making steps. This is especially true traversing the Lauribina Pass, which stands at 4,610 meters or 15,120 feet since the climb and the descent are very steep.

Trip Grade: Fitness level, Medical, and Health

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is moderate that is why to go for the trek one must have to be in average physical condition. On average, the trekkers are able to complete around 5 to 6 hours km of the trail a day, with about 300 meters up and down and it involves having a 5kg backpack at most.

Of course, one must acknowledge rounding issues which per se are the major concern throughout the trek given the altitude of above 4000 meters. To avoid this from happening, trekkers are usually provided with some days in which they would have to spend most of their time resting and visiting some of the sites around the area.

The other is to carry along a simple supply kit and some useful items such as bandages, an anti-bacterial cream, and minor petty medical kits for altitude sickness.

Altitude Sickness in Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda trek

Altitude sickness is a common concern on the Gosaikunda trek, which reaches a high point of about 4,380 meters (14,370 feet). Starting from Dhunche at around 1,950 meters (6,400 feet), trekkers gradually ascend to higher altitudes, passing through places like Chandanbari (3,330 meters) and Lauribinayak (3,910 meters).

The rapid gain in altitude can lead to symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. It’s important to acclimatize properly by taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and ascending slowly.

Trekking Experience of Langtang Gosaikunda trek

Trekking is relatively challenging; thus, this trek is best suited for advanced trekkers; however, it’s not necessary that prior trekking experience is compulsory. Regarding the trek, anyone with an illness, a pregnant woman, or anyone with a problem who cannot do a lot of climbing up and down steep and rough terrains in mountainous areas should not go for the trek. But as long as one has a positive attitude towards the entire process and has the right information on the trek, a first-time trekker never has to go through any of the staking and gets through this trek with a guide.

Emergency and Evacuation

Thus, on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, it might be worthwhile to mention that there are occasions that can be negotiated in order to get help and evacuation in cases of troubleshoots. Several trekking companies offer guided treks and some also avail guides on first aid, and on altitude sickness.

For even more exigent circumstances, a helicopter can be hired; for example; at altitude, travelers may experience sickness which requires them to be evacuated immediately or any other exigent circumstance which necessitates air evacuation.

Kit and equipment for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

When preparing for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, it’s essential to pack the right gear and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here’s a list of essential items to bring:

Clothing:

• Waterproof and breathable trekking pants
• Insulating layers (fleece jacket, down jacket)
• Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeved shirts, thermal underwear)
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
• Sun hat and beanie or warm hat
• Gloves or mittens

Footwear:

• Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
• Trekking sandals

Gear:

• Backpack with rain cover (large enough to carry water, snacks, extra clothing, and personal items)
• Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
• Trekking poles for stability and support on uneven terrain
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Personal water bottle or hydration system
• Quick-drying towel
• Personal toiletries and medications
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF protection
• Insect repellent

Miscellaneous:

• Lightweight and quick-drying towel
• Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
• Power bank or portable solar charger
• Trekking permit and identification documents
• Cash

Special training

In training for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, stamina must be trained through cardiovascular activities such as walking, running, and cycling, among others. Some of the exercises aim at your legs, core, and upper body strength, including squats and lunges. Gradually increase the frequency of the hikes and the time you use for hiking. If possible, go to high altitudes to get used to the altitude. This is important because one acclimatizes to the load, and stretching exercises are also included to ensure that muscles remain flexible.

Best Time for Langtang valley and Gosaikunda trek

The best time for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods have the most favourable weather conditions and stunning natural beauty.

Gosaikunda Trek in Spring (March to May)

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Weather in Spring:

The spring season on the Gosaikunda Trek is Moderate, with warm to mild temperatures. Trekkers will experience little fluctuating weather throughout the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. The temperature during the day varies from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius; nights can be colder, especially in the mountains.

The trails are covered with rhododendrons and other flowers, creating a stunning and colourful atmosphere. The sky is generally clear, providing a good view of the Langtang Himal and other snow-capped mountains.

Pros: Trekking appropriate climate, sceneries, vegetation, and mountain views.

Cons: Tour high season means that many trekkers and tourists prefer this period for hiking and visiting the teahouses.

Gosaikunda Trek in Autumn (September to November)

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Weather in Autumn:

After the monsoon season, Langtang Gosaikunda is warm and has fairly set weather; the skies are clear, giving it good visibility. The daytime temperature is moderate, between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius, and nights can be really cold, particularly at higher altitudes.

The outlook of the mountains is greatly improved. There are clear skies with no pollution at all. As you follow the trail, primarily through villages, it has a cultural aspect, especially because it is harvested during autumn.

Pros: Good weather, remarkable topography.

Cons: Another busy trekking time can sometimes imply an increased number of people on the trails.

Gosaikunda Trek in Winter (December to February)

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Weather in Winter:

High altitudes and cool temperatures, with daytime temperatures falling between 5 to 10 degrees Celsius and night temperatures considerably low. Higher trails may prove difficult or closed during winter due to snowfall in Gosaikunda.

Winter scenes introduce several aesthetical appeals, especially when snow covers the ground completely. The climate is reasonably dry with much clear weather; the visibility, therefore, is good for the presence of the mountains.

Pros: Fewer visitors, no disturbing noise, and more scenic beauty of snow-capped mountains.

Cons: Severe weather and temperature, the possibility of a great amount of snow, and closed trails.

Gosaikunda Trek in Monsoon (June to August)

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Weather in Monsoon:

Most of its rainfall occurs through heavy downpours, very high humidity levels, and cloudy weather. Generally, paths can be wrong, turning into marshland, and sometimes, the trails could be clearer. For instance, in Gosaikunda, during the Monsoon season, there is a very high tendency to experience landslides.

Because of the rains, the conditions are slippery and soggy; however, mountainous regions are often hidden from view by mist.

Pros: Lush landscape and less crowd.

Cons: Difficult trekking conditions, leeches, little or no mountain views, and risk of landslides.

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek Permits

You’ll need to obtain two permits for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, which help manage conservation efforts and ensure safety along the trails.

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): The TIMS card collects trekkers’ information for safety and emergency purposes and monitors trekking activities in the region.

Cost: USD 20 for foreigners, USD 10 for SAARC nationals.

Langtang National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required to enter the Langtang National Park, which covers the majority of the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trekking route. It helps fund conservation efforts and infrastructure maintenance within the park.

Cost: USD 30 per person.

Accommodation during the Langtang Gosaikunda trek

Teahouses/Lodges:

Teahouses are the main types of accommodation available along the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek routes. In teahouses, they provide simple beds and blankets in their rooms for tourists. They, as mentioned before, have common facilities like showers and toilets, which have been known to have squat toilets available.

Living areas are also commonly used as living spaces where individuals come together to take their meals. There are often hot showers available at many teahouses for a small extra charge; however, the availability is influenced by the altitude and the relative accessibility of the areas. They are very cheap, costing between 500 to 1500 NRP per night, helping the trekkers spend less.

Camping:

Camping is possible for people who want even less contact with other tourists or are searching for more deserted locations. All carrying camping necessities such as tents, sleeping bags, and kitchen utensils are done by trekkers. Also, some of the teahouses charge a small amount of money for getting to have a camping ground where they may furnish basic needs such as water and, on certain occasions, may allow campers to use some of the bathing facilities in the teahouse.

Food in Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

You can expect a wide range of food while in the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek.

Breakfast:

Choices range from tea or coffee to Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, eggs boiled, fried, or made into an omelette or muesli with hot milk.

Lunch:

Some options are Dal Bhat (rice and lentils with curry), Chow mein (noodles), fried rice, pasta, sandwiches (cheese, eggs, or vegetarian), and soups (vegetarian or noodle).

Dinner:

There are similar options to lunch, with additions such as momos (dumplings), pizza, yak steak (in higher altitudes), and occasionally international dishes like spaghetti.

Beverages and Snacks:

Hot drinks like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks (Coke, Fanta), bottled water, local alcoholic beverages (beer, Chang), biscuits, chocolate bars, nuts, energy bars, and fresh fruits when available.

Electricity, battery recharge, and water during the Langtang and Gosaikunda trek

Electricity:

• Most teahouses and lodges provide electricity.
• Exceptions include Lama Hotel, where electricity is not available.
• In Gosaikunda, some places may have limited or no electricity, but several teahouses and lodges use solar panels to charge devices and offer basic amenities like Wi-Fi.

Water:

• Trekkers will find numerous water sources, such as streams and taps, at teahouses and lodges throughout the trek.
• Drink by boiling it or using water purification tablets to ensure safety.
• Refilling reusable water bottles is convenient and environmentally friendly, minimizing the use of single-use plastic bottles.

Roads On The Gosaikunda Trek And How To Avoid Them

This trek is rated easy to moderate but can include some routes that can be quite tough for individuals to trek through. Nevertheless, there are several segments where roads, or at least jeep tracks, are present – mostly at the lowest altitudes. Of course, there are opportunities to change direction and return to more typical hiking. The right path enables a tourist to avoid too many roads and instead experience the beauty of the Langtang Gosaikunda region.

Alternative routes for Gosaikunda Trek Nepal

Likewise, the trek to Gosaikunda is also known as Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, but Gosaikunda has many ways. It is the Helambu Trek, which starts from Sundarijal or Chisapani, near Kalika, and takes you through the cultural Helambu trek to Gosaikunda. The other is the culturally rewarding Tamang Heritage Trail, where one can meet the people and even their customs as it connects to Gosaikunda through beautiful, unfamiliar villages. Always carry a Langtang Gosaikunda Trek map for convenience.

With Himalayan Masters

Booking/Airport Pickup:

Himalayan Masters also offer easy-to-book treks like Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, respectively, to make it easier for them even if it’s their first time. They have a good arrival meet and greet service in Kathmandu, and their staff will be waiting for you along with a Nepali welcome and will transfer you to your trekking team.

Support Team:

In such cases, when trekking with Himalayan Masters, you are never alone because you will always be associated with a support crew throughout the trekking exercise. All the guides, porters, and other crew members are professional and will guarantee safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout the tour.

Starting Point/Ending Point:

Typically the trek to Langtang Gosaikunda starts at Syabrubesi. After getting out of Syabrubesi, eager trekkers can tread into the heaven known as Langtang and Gosaikunda. The trek continues through Syabrubesi after the striking and fun time making stops to capture beautiful scenery and interact with the locals.

A typical day on the Gosaikunda Lake Trek

As with the other treks, a normal Langtang and Gosaikunda trek itinerary begins with waking up early for breakfast from a teahouse or lodge. Trekkers next begin their trek, which is usually early in the morning, around 7-8 AM, where they pass through villages/forests and some beautiful mountains. The break is usually taken in the mid-morning at a teahouse. In the event that a lodge is available in the region, it is also taken in the mid-morning. This tour takes the party less than the morning trek and gets the party to the day’s planned stop in the afternoon or early evening. After the meal, trekkers take a break to charge their energy and sleep a bit before addressing activities to be done the next day.

Langtang Gosaikunda trek cost

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek cost around $ 1365 per person. Such costs include charges for permits, guides, porters, meals, accommodation, transport, and any other expenses incurred during the tour. However, the following Langtang Gosaikunda trek cost should be noted and are not included in the above calculations: Known mitigation factors are International flights, Travel insurance, and Tips.

Here’s a general breakdown of the costs:

Permits:

Langtang National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 for foreigners, NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals.

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card: NPR 2,000.

Guide and Porter Fees:

Guide: Around NPR 2,000 to 3,000 per day.

Porter: Around NPR 1,500 to 2,500 per day.

Accommodation:

Teahouses and lodges along the trekking route: Approximately NPR 500 to 1,500 per night, depending on the season and location.

Meals:

Three meals a day: Approximately NPR 1,500 to 2,500 daily, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Transportation:

Bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (starting point of the trek): Around NPR 500 to 1,000 per person, one way.

Miscellaneous:

Water, snacks, and other personal expenses: Approximately NPR 1,000 to 1,500 per day.

Insurance for Langtang Gosaikunda trek

Travel insurance is essential for the Langtang Gosaikunda trek due to its remote and high-altitude wilderness. It covers crucial aspects such as emergency medical evacuation for altitude sickness, accidents, and injuries, as well as trip cancellations and loss of personal belongings. Trekkers should ensure their insurance includes coverage for altitudes up to approximately 4,400 meters, as most insurers provide this level of coverage. Costs for such insurance typically range around $75, depending on coverage limits and the trek duration. A trekker must bring travel insurance from their home country.

Additional Expenses for Gosaikunda Helambu Trek

• Snacks.
• Additional drinks.
• Buying souvenirs during the trek or from the porters.
• Charging electronic gadgets.
• Also, warmth and hot temperatures, such as taking a hot shower.

ATM in Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Trek

ATM facilities can be available in Kathmandu and sometimes in the larger village halts of the Langtang and Gosaikunda trek trail, but they may not be more reliable. It is, therefore, advisable to order a good amount of money in Nepalese rupees to take for the Langtang and Gosaikunda trek, as well as some extra money just in case anything leads to abnormal spending.