Langtang Valley Trek Overview
Trekking to Langtang Valley is a well-known trekking stop, located only 61.8km north from Kathmandu.
Although the trek is almost tiny, sweet, easily approachable, and affordable, the trails are more peaceful with a shorter number of trekkers compared to other hikes of Nepal.
The trek is perfect for both experienced as well as beginner trekkers. This trek gives an unbelievable chance to cross through fascinating Tamang villages, different sceneries, vast mountain valleys, and old monasteries.
The trekking trails of Langtang valley also offer you a panoramic view of the mountains, including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa and other surrounding peaks. Also, the Himalayan glacier of Ganja La Pass is another attraction of the trek.
In Langtang National Park, you may detect lots of wild animals, including red panda and snow leopards. You may also see some rare birds like Himalayan Monal & the snow Patridge.
The 2015 earthquake severely damaged this area, but now after reconstruction and renovation, it is open for the trekkers.
Langtang Valley Trek Facts
- Trip Span: 8 – 12 Days
- Maximum height: 5,033 m, Tserko Ri
- Trip Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation Facility: Teahouse/Guesthouse/Lodge
- Hiking Duration: 4-6 hours per day
- Best Season to Visit: Autumn and spring
Highlights
- Beautiful view of Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Jugal Himal.
- Climb to the viewpoint of Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri for best mountain views.
- Explore the beautiful Tamang villages, their cultures, tradition, and heritage.
- Chance to witness precious animals such as red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, etc.
- Visit the most famous ancient monastery of Langtang valley, Kyanjin Gompa.
Itinerary
Your journey to Langtang Valley Trek commences and ends with a 7/8 hour drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, a distance of around 120km. You can reach Kathmandu to Syafru Besi, both by local/private bus or jeep.
The roadway from Kathmandu to Trishuli Bazaar is excellent with a narrow winding highway. But, after Trishuli Bazaar, the way converts rough and bumpy.
Here is the eight days itinerary that regular trekkers will follow to do Langtang valley trek.
- Day 01: Drive to Syafru Besi(1,600 m). 7-8 hrs
- Day 02: Hiking to Lama Hotel(2,410 m). 6-7 hrs
- Day 03: Trekking to Mundu(3,540 m) via Langtang Village. 6-7 hrs
- Day 04: Trekking to Kyangjin Gompa(3,870 m). 5 hrs
- Day 05: Climb to Teserko Ri(5,000 m) and back to Kyanjin Gompa. 5-6 hrs
- Day 06: Trek back to Lama Hotel (2,410 m). 6-7 hrs
- Day 07: Hike back to Syabru Besi(1,600 m). 6-7 hrs
- Day 08: Drive back to Kathmandu from Syafru Besi. 7-8 hrs
Extension
If you have enough time, let’s say more than eight days for trekking in the Langtang region; you can combine the Langtang Valley Trek with a side trip to either Gosainkunda Lake or Helambu village.
Gosainkunda Lake is a pure glacial lake at an altitude of 4,380m, is a shrine of Hindus. The landscape’s views of the scenic mountain from the lake, and alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake itself make Gosainkunda must reach the destination.
The way to Lakes of Gosainkunda joins from Thulo Syafru while returning the way from Langtang Trek. It takes two days to reach Gosaikunda from Thulo Syabru.
Likewise, Sidetrip to Helambu is a perfect option to have a unique experience to witness the ancient culture of Hyolmo tribes, local culture, less known remote Nepali village.
You can go to Helambu village either from Gosaikunda-Ghopte- Melamchigaon or from via Sundarijal.
The whole Lantang region trek by combining all three major trekking trails of Langtang valley, Gosaikunda Lake, and Helambu village can be done in 13 days.
Best Season
Actually, the trekking to Langtang Valley is possible completely the whole year. However, spring right after the freezing winter and in the autumn season right after the monsoon are two most popular periods to visit the Langtang region.
Moderate temperature with a crystal clear sky makes the autumn best season for trekking in the Himalayas. This means the heat during this period of the year is ideal for trekking. Also, you can see the unbelievable scenery of the Himalayas during the trek, but the trekking trails would be busy.
During the springtime, the temperature is somewhat warmer during the day, and the sky seems cloudy, which makes the view may not be as outstanding as the autumn months.
Winter produces cold and harsh climate, particularly at the higher altitudes. Heavy snowfall in the mountains closes the trails sometimes, makes it hard to walk on snow-covered paths during winter.
Monsoon is not the best time to go to Langtang. The rainy season, slippery trails, leeches make trekking experience less enjoyable.
Difficulty
Langtang Valley Trekking in Nepal Himalayas is a quick and easy trek that does not need any professional talents or prior trekking experience. You can accomplish the complete trek in 7 to 10 days, hiking 4 to 6 hours per day.
The most challenging part of this Langtang valley trek is the climbing Tserko Ri. The trail to reach Tserko Ri from Kyanjin Gompa is regularly sheer upward on the rocky Himalayan region. If you don’t want to go high altitude, you can skip your Tserko Ri climb and enjoy at lower elevations. Still, on other days, the route is simple and comfortable with a relaxing hike.
Permits
Langtang National Park Entry Permit – Rs. 3,000
Conclusion
Langtang Valley Trekking is a little and medium fitness trek. Quickly obtainable from Kathmandu valley, this trek is a unique chance that rewards hikers with unforgettable trekking experience and warm hospitality of locals.
Langtang Trek is a perfect alternative for peaceful trek lovers who are thinking to avoid the massive crowd of Annapurna & Everest region routes. It gives a different landscape, different cultures, gorgeous scenery, and picturesque mountain views.