The Langtang - Gosaikunda - Helumbu Trek

This trek typically takes between 7 and 10 days. The Langtang Valley runs west to east below the southern flanks and glaciers of Langtang Lirung (7245m), which separates this high alpine valley from the Tibetan plateau to the north. Sherpa farmers inhabit this and the Helambu area lying to the south beyond and below the sacred lakes of Gosaikunda. Easily accessible from Kathmadnu, we consider these treks to be amongst the most under-rated in Nepal. They offer marvelous autumn trekking with fine mountain views and one of the best areas for spring flowers and bird life. Although Langtang Valley can be very cold in January-February with the Gosainkunda Pass closed, Helambu is temperate all year round and offers excellent opportunities for short treks into Sherpa villages.

A trek to this area starts from Dhunche after an interesting five hours drive from Kathmandu. The trail initially follows the line of the Trisuli River heading north before turning east and up into the wide alpine valley of Langtang. Kyanjin Gompa near the top end of the valley lies at 3500m and offers an ideal location for day walks to the spectacular glaciers falling form Kangtanf Lirung or the Langsisa Glacier at the eastern end of the valley.

Langtang, Gosaikunda & Helambu: 175 km out of Kathmandu you will see fewer tourists in this area. This is not quite so easy as Annapurna nor so difficult as Everest but it is a beautiful trek. Treks vary in length from 4 to 16 days which makes this an ideal trekking route for those with limited time.

Now a national park, this area is fully protected and is home to animals such as the Himalyan Tahr, Musk Deer, the rare Lesser Panda and the Snow Leopard. The holy lakes of Gosainkunda and the Sherpa villages of Helambu are visited on the return journey.

Grade 4